Stomp on the gas/brake

Stomp on the gas/brake refers to the action of suddenly and forcefully pressing down on either the accelerator (gas pedal) or brake pedal in a racing vehicle.

This motorsport term emphasizes the quick, aggressive nature of the pedal application, rather than a smooth or gradual press. When drivers "stomp on the gas," they're applying maximum throttle input to accelerate as rapidly as possible. When they "stomp on the brake," they're hitting the brake pedal hard to achieve maximum stopping power.

The technique is commonly used at race starts, where drivers stomp on the gas pedal the moment the green flag drops or starting lights go out. This aggressive acceleration helps them gain positions early in the race when every fraction of a second matters.

Emergency situations also call for stomping on the brake. If a driver sees an accident ahead or needs to avoid a collision, they'll stomp on the brake pedal to stop as quickly as physically possible. This relates to what racing professionals call threshold braking - applying maximum braking force right up to the limit before the wheels lock up.

In drag racing, drivers often stomp on the gas to perform burnouts before their run. This aggressive throttle application spins the rear wheels while the car remains stationary, heating up the tires for better traction during the actual race.

While stomping on pedals might sound crude, it requires skill and timing. Professional drivers know exactly when to apply this technique versus when to use more gradual pedal inputs. The key is matching the aggressiveness of the pedal application to what the racing situation demands.

New racing drivers often need to overcome their street driving habits, where smooth pedal application is preferred, and learn when forceful pedal inputs are necessary for competitive racing.