One-Stop Strategy

A One-Stop Strategy is a racing approach where a driver makes only one pit stop during an entire race, typically to change tires and refuel if necessary.

This strategy aims to minimize time lost in the pit lane while balancing tire wear and performance. Teams choose this approach when they calculate that the time saved by making fewer stops outweighs the potential speed advantage of fresher tires from additional stops.

Success with a one-stop strategy requires careful tire management by the driver, who must preserve their tires while maintaining competitive pace. Weather conditions, track characteristics, and tire compound durability all influence whether a one-stop strategy is optimal for a particular race.