Standing on the brake

Standing on the brake refers to applying maximum braking force to slow a vehicle down as quickly as possible in motorsport.

When a driver is "standing on the brake," they're pushing the brake pedal with significant force, often using their full leg strength. This technique is crucial for approaching corners at high speed, where drivers need to decelerate rapidly before turning in. In many race cars, this requires considerable physical effort as braking systems aren't power-assisted.

You'll commonly hear commentators use this term during intense moments of a race, such as when a driver brakes late to overtake a competitor or when approaching a tight corner after a long straight. The ability to effectively "stand on the brake" without locking wheels or losing control is a fundamental skill that separates amateur drivers from professionals.