Strategy · Updated for 2026
F1 undercut and overcut explained
Two ways to use pit-stop timing to pass a rival without overtaking them on track.
Quick answer
An undercut stops earlier to exploit fresh-tyre pace; an overcut stays out longer, hoping clean air or a rival's slow warm-up produces a better total time.
01
How the undercut works
The chasing car pits, gains time on fresh tyres and hopes to be ahead after the rival completes a later stop.
02
How the overcut works
The driver remains on track and tries to produce strong laps while the rival warms new tyres or encounters traffic after stopping.
03
Why neither is automatic
A large pit gap, slow warm-up, traffic or durable tyres can neutralise the move. Teams model the crossover continuously.