The car ahead changes the air
An F1 car disturbs the airflow around it. The following car encounters air with different characteristics, which may reduce aerodynamic efficiency. The effect depends on the gap, corner and car design.
The tyres feel the effect
If the car loses downforce, the driver may slide more. That affects tyre temperature and degradation. An attack therefore carries a cost that is not always immediately visible in the standings.
Why an overtake has several stages
The driver must be close on corner exit, prepare energy for the straight and brake under control. Even a large pace advantage may be insufficient if the cars’ strengths appear in the wrong places.
