Cool-down lap
A cool-down lap is a slower lap at the end of a session that lets brakes, tires, engine and driver come down from track temperatures.
Also called: in-lap, cooling lap
When the checkered flag comes out, the session is over but your car is still at its hottest. A cool-down lap at a moderate pace lets air flow through the brakes and radiator while you stop leaning on them. Stay alert, keep holding your line predictably, and use mirrors; other cars are slowing at different rates.
Brake as little as possible and as gently as you can. Coming into the paddock, avoid holding the brake pedal at a standstill with very hot pads, because that can imprint pad material onto the rotors. Many drivers roll to their spot and use wheel chocks or first gear instead of the parking brake if the brakes are glowing hot.
It is also a mental cool-down. Breathe, loosen your grip, and replay the session while it is fresh. Many coaches ask for one thing you did well and one thing to change before you have even unbuckled.
A proper cool-down reduces brake and engine damage and prevents incidents caused by tired drivers relaxing too early.