DEFINITION
A Clipping Point is an inside-corner reference (usually a cone, painted line, or physical zone) that judges expect the car to come as close to as possible during the drift. Each course has multiple clipping points, and missing one costs significant score.
Clipping points define the line a driver must take. They are the spatial 'questions' a course asks; the line and angle a driver chooses to hit them is the 'answer' judges score.
HISTORY & ORIGIN
Clipping points come straight from grip racing — the same word in F1 and rally — but drift adapted them by widening the acceptable approach angle. In drift you don't just graze the apex, you arrive sideways.
TECHNIQUE BREAKDOWN
Approach a clipping point with the rear of the car, not the front — that's how a drift line differs from a grip line. The most common mistake is targeting the front wheel toward the clip; instead, point the rear corner at it and the front will sweep wide naturally.
PRO TIPS & COMMON MISTAKES
• Walk the course before practice; some clipping points hide on the track map.
• Inner clipping points typically score more than outer ones — prioritize them if you have to pick.
• Touching a clip with the rear bumper or door is acceptable; touching with the wheel may damage the suspension.
She nailed all three clipping points with the rear quarter panel.