Karting drivers that survive attacks from opponents under pressure win races and titles. Those drivers tend to come out on top more than often. What can we do to set ourselves up strategically and mentally to prepare for defending our position, perhaps the lead, on the final lap?

Defensive Line

Most drivers crack under pressure and your rivals will start using that against you. This moral high ground gives them the power over you until they see no way past. Therefore, the first thing is to strategically place your kart well on track. Nothing is more important than placing your kart at the right spot at the given time to defend your position. Learn about defensive driving in our Young Driver Program. 

Predict Their Next Move

When the attacker has put you under pressure without success, their first reaction would be to increase the pressure physically and play on your nerves by pushing. This is much harder to manage strategically as much as mentally. But when you’ve prepared yourself for their next move, you’re much more likely to survive another attack. Brake earlier to give yourself a buffer for being pushed slightly wide. This way you will not overshoot and still approach the corner with the speed you can manage. The main target is to survive the attack, not rush in the process. 

Control the Situation Inside Your Head

Control is something you cannot give away. When the attacker gains control of the situation, it leaves no chance to survive under pressure. Don’t allow the driver behind crush your dreams of winning the race or holding the position. Control the situation inside your head and don’t fear the attacker. Moral high ground is the biggest advantage one could give when they’re searching for weaknesses. 

No Hesitation

Make very concrete maneuvers, do not hesitate to take control of the situation. Close the doors properly, brake when you want and leave no chance for your opponents. Any sloppiness while trying survive attacks under pressure will cost you dearly. Race with your heart and do not back down. 

More experienced karting drivers often beat their younger opponents with the qualities named above. Remember the key points when under pressure for the first time. Think it through and be ready to utilise. Get your head in the game, be clever and don’t panic – then you’ll be able to survive any attack under pressure.