Out Lap

An Out Lap is the lap a driver completes immediately after exiting the pit lane and entering the track.

During an out lap, drivers focus on preparing their car for optimal performance by warming up tires and brakes. You'll often see drivers weaving side-to-side or braking more frequently during this lap - these aren't mistakes, but deliberate actions to generate heat in the components.

Out laps are particularly important in qualifying sessions, where drivers need their tires at the perfect temperature before starting a fast lap. In races, after a pit stop, a well-executed out lap can help a driver maintain position by quickly bringing new tires up to racing temperature.