Slide Job

A slide job is an overtaking maneuver in motorsport where a driver dives to the inside of a turn, intentionally slides their car sideways in front of the leading competitor, and uses this sliding motion to complete the pass and block the other driver's momentum.

This exciting racing technique is most commonly seen in oval track racing, particularly in dirt track racing and NASCAR events. The move gets its name from the sliding or drifting motion the car makes as it cuts across the track surface during the pass attempt.

To execute a slide job, the attacking driver enters the corner carrying more speed than they normally would. As they turn into the corner on the inside line, they allow their car to lose grip and slide sideways. This sliding motion helps the car rotate quickly and move up the track, positioning it directly in front of the car they're trying to pass.

The key to a successful slide job is timing and car control. The driver must judge the exact moment to make their move, ensuring they have enough speed to complete the slide while staying in control of their vehicle. If executed properly, the maneuver breaks the leading driver's momentum and forces them to slow down or change their racing line.

Slide jobs are particularly effective on dirt tracks where the loose surface allows cars to slide more easily. The dirt provides less grip than pavement, making it easier for drivers to intentionally break their car loose and slide it into position. However, this same lack of grip makes the maneuver riskier, as drivers can easily lose complete control.

There's an important distinction between clean and dirty slide jobs. A clean slide job gives the overtaken driver enough room to safely react and potentially attempt to cross back underneath to retake the position. A dirty slide job involves excessive blocking, cutting off the other driver too aggressively, or making contact, which can lead to crashes and is generally considered poor sportsmanship.

You'll often see slide jobs attempted in the final laps of a race when drivers become more aggressive in their pursuit of positions. The maneuver requires commitment and confidence because once you start the slide, there's no backing out. Drivers like Kyle Larson have built reputations on their ability to execute slide jobs consistently and cleanly.

The overtaken driver isn't helpless after being slide-jobbed. They can attempt a "crossover move," where they quickly change direction and dive back underneath the sliding car to retake the position before the next corner. This back-and-forth battle between drivers executing slide jobs and crossover moves creates some of the most exciting racing action in motorsport.