What Is a Stint in F1?

A stint is the period of time a Formula 1 driver spends on track between pit stops — from when they leave the pits on a set of tyres to when they return for a change. The first stint begins at the start of the race. A typical race involves one, two, or sometimes three stints. Longer stints mean fewer pit stops but put more wear on the tyres; shorter stints allow fresher rubber but cost time in the pit lane. Managing the balance of each stint is central to race strategy.

Example: He’s on a very long second stint here — the team are hoping the tyres hold on until the final ten laps before pitting.