Unexpectedly, Chen Xiangbei almost didn't fall behind.
However, the ROC National Cup format involves two parallel tracks, unlike Formula races where drivers face direct competition.
Gaining an advantage at the start, it was merely 0.003 seconds faster, not enough to capture the optimal line through the turn and decisively outpace the opponent.
The real determinant of the race outcome is turn speed!
The Bird's Nest Track's starting straight is very short; in the blink of an eye, the two cars reach Turn 1.
Chen Xiangbei is on the inner track, which theoretically means his turning radius is smaller, requiring him to brake and slow down in advance.
However, Chen Xiangbei delayed the braking point, almost managing to decelerate simultaneously with Button on the outer track. He hugged the inside of the turn closely, then used the standard outside-inside-outside line strategy to navigate the curve.
