pacenotes

Pacenotes are a system of written and spoken instructions used in rallying to communicate the course ahead from the co-driver to the driver. Developed during reconnaissance and refined in service, they describe upcoming road features, hazards, and surface conditions, along with the recommended level of commitment. The precision and timing of pacenotes are crucial for safety and performance.

Notes are created by the co-driver during a recce, and then tested and adjusted with the driver. They typically cover short segments of road, each detailing the type of corner or obstacle, its severity, distance to the next note, and any expectation of changes in surface or grip. A common structure uses concise phrases or codes that can be read aloud while the car is moving, allowing the driver to anticipate the route in real time.

Examples of content include left or right turns, crests, jumps, rough sections, and changes of surface. The notes may specify the direction, approximate radius, and how quickly the driver should commit to the maneuver, sometimes including a suggested speed or pace level. Consistency between the driver and co-driver, and a shared vocabulary, are essential for effective reading.

Pacenotes are standard across many rally disciplines, including World Rally Championship events, national rallies, and cross-country stage races. They require extensive practice, mutual trust, and ongoing updates after reconnaissance and during the season. Advances in digital mapping and reporting have influenced modern pacenote preparation, but the core concept remains: translating the road into legible, timely guidance for the driver.