Strategy · Updated for 2026
One-stop versus two-stop F1 strategy
The central trade between losing less time in the pit lane and gaining more pace from fresher tyres.
Quick answer
A one-stop strategy saves one pit-lane time loss but asks each tyre set to last longer. A two-stop strategy pays for another stop in exchange for shorter, faster stints and more flexibility to attack.
The one-stop case
When degradation is modest and overtaking is difficult, keeping track position may outweigh the pace available from another tyre change. Drivers must protect the tyres across longer stints.
The two-stop case
High degradation or a large pace gain on fresh rubber can repay the extra pit loss. Shorter stints also allow a driver to push harder and provide additional chances to react to rivals.
Why the faster model can lose
A strategy that is quicker in clean air may fail if the car rejoins behind traffic and cannot pass. Teams model tyre pace and also the exact cars, gaps and overtaking difficulty around the projected rejoin.