Grass Runoff

A Grass Runoff is a grassy area adjacent to a race track that serves as a safety buffer zone for vehicles that veer off the racing surface.

These natural runoff areas help slow down cars that leave the track by providing increased rolling resistance compared to pavement. When drivers make mistakes or lose control, the grass creates friction that reduces speed, potentially preventing more serious accidents with barriers or obstacles.

While modern racing circuits increasingly use asphalt or gravel runoff areas for improved safety, grass runoffs remain common at traditional tracks like Silverstone or Monza. Drivers typically avoid these areas during races as the reduced traction on grass significantly slows lap times and can cause vehicles to slide unpredictably.