Tarmac Runoff
Tarmac runoff is a paved safety area next to a racetrack that allows drivers to safely slow down and regain control if they accidentally leave the track during a race.
Think of tarmac runoff as a "safety net" made of the same asphalt material used on the actual racing surface. When a driver makes a mistake or loses control of their car, instead of immediately hitting a wall or barrier, they can drive onto this paved area to brake and steer back to safety.
The main advantage of tarmac runoff areas is that they provide excellent grip for tires, just like the race track itself. This means drivers can brake effectively and maintain steering control even when they've gone off course. The predictable surface helps drivers slow down much better than if they went onto grass or gravel.
Modern racing circuits like Circuit Paul Ricard in France are famous for their extensive tarmac runoff areas, which feature distinctive colored stripes designed to help slow down cars even more effectively. These areas have become standard at most professional racing venues because they significantly reduce the risk of serious accidents.
However, tarmac runoff areas do create some challenges for race officials. Since drivers don't face much penalty for running wide onto the smooth surface, some try to gain an advantage by using extra space during corners. This has led to ongoing debates about track limits and when drivers should receive penalties for leaving the designated racing area.
The alternative to tarmac runoff is typically gravel traps, which immediately slow cars down but can sometimes cause vehicles to flip or become stuck. While gravel provides a stronger deterrent against track limit violations, tarmac runoff is generally considered safer, especially for motorcycle racing where riders can be thrown from their bikes.
Most racing fans and drivers agree that tarmac runoff areas have made motorsport significantly safer, even if they sometimes make races less dramatic by reducing the immediate consequences of driver errors.