What Is Wheelspin in F1?

Wheelspin occurs when a Formula 1 driver applies so much throttle that the rear tyres lose traction and spin faster than the car is actually moving, causing them to slip on the track surface rather than gripping it. This is most common on corner exit, particularly in wet conditions or when the tyres are cold. Wheelspin wastes engine power, wears the tyres, and costs time. Modern F1 cars have sophisticated traction control systems managed by the driver’s throttle sensitivity and setup to minimise wheelspin.

Example: He’s got a big moment of wheelspin on the exit of the hairpin — that’s going to cost him on the time sheet.