A braking zone is the section of track between the point where a driver begins to brake and the point where they start to turn into a corner. In Formula 1, braking zones are often the primary location for overtaking attempts — if a driver can brake later than the car in front, they can carry more speed into the corner and get alongside or ahead. Braking zones vary enormously by corner: some require very heavy braking from very high speeds, while others involve light, progressive slowing. Getting the braking zone right is a fundamental skill.
Example: He’s gone incredibly deep into the braking zone at turn one — he’s left it almost too late but he’s made the corner and he’s through!
See Also: