Originally Posted by
topflightpro
That's fascinating. I'm guessing the fact that the velodromes are indoors is a big factor in that?
I think it's just as important that tracks are oval, so a rider can ride in their own slipstream.
Also relevant is a rule of thumb from sailboat racing: Under moderate conditions the "dirty air" coming off the sails of a boat extends seven boat lengths to leeward. In sailing, drafting is slow.