In Formula One, races are often won by slimmer margins than the naked eye can see.
A tiny twist of a steering wheel, a twitchy step on a pedal, a fleeting lapse of concentration: any moment can determine success or failure. Frequently, these moments arrive when the car comes to a halt.
When a driver hears the “box, box” call on their radio, they exit the main track for a pit stop. Instantly, a swarm of mechanics start changing tyres, making repairs, and adjusting settings. Within a few seconds, the vehicle is back in the race with a winning upgrade.
At least, that’s the objective. Good pit spots have been credited for breathtaking victories. But bad ones have been blamed for heartbreaking defeats.
The McLaren F1 team has experienced both extremes. At last weekend’s British Grand Prix, a pit stop mishap led star driver Lando Norris to lose his lead.
The setback stood in stark contrast to the …