Watch along as SRU Content Creator Danny Giusa and his team attempt the iRacing 24 Hours of Spa-Franchorchamps - and try their setup, too!

The real edition is coming up in a week, but the virtual endurance classic is scheduled for this weekend when the iRacing 24 Hours of Spa-Franchorchamps sees the green flag. SimRacing Unlimited Content Creator <a href="https://twitter.com/DannyGiusa" target="_self">Danny Giusa</a> is set to race for mydays Erlebniswerk – watch him and his team in action starting Saturday at 2pm CEST. As a small goodie to start your weekend off right, you can even try their setup: Just head on over to <a href="https://www.racedepartment.com/downloads/sru-spa-24-hours-mercedes-amg-gt3-race-setup.44035/" target="_self">RaceDepartment</a>, download and give it a go!
Giusa will take to the virtual version of the legendary Ardennes rollercoaster together with ADAC GT Masters driver <a href="https://www.instagram.com/luci_trefz/" target="_self">Luci Trefz</a> (Land Motorsport), his Haupt Racing teammate <a href="https://twitter.com/Florian_Denzler" target="_self">Florian Denzler</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SepZonee" target="_self">Sebastian Samedow</a> (mydays). Their race is going to start at 2.50pm, you can watch along on <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/dannygiusa" target="_self">Danny's</a>, <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/rubiks694" target="_self">Florian's</a> or <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/sepzone" target="_self">Sebastian's</a> streams to see how they are doing. Florian is scheduled to be in the car for the start.

iRacing Spa 24 Hours Mercedes AMG GT3 Erlebniswerk

Watch Giusa, Denzler and teammates at the iRacing Spa 24 hours and try their setup

Great news for Moritz Löhner: Thanks to two new sponsors, the SimRacer can complete his DTM Trophy campaign.

Making the transition to real racing is a dream of many SimRacers. For Moritz Löhner, it has come true – and the two-time ADAC GT Masters Esports Champion can keep living this dream for the rest of the year: Two new sponsors make it possible for the 22 year old to keep on racing for the rest of the DTM Trophy season.
A successful SimRacer in Raceroom, Löhner currently races for Dörr Esports, having been with Williams Esports and CORE Motorsports in the past. In 2021, Moritz was picked up by FK Performance to drive a BMW M4 GT4 in the real-life DTM Trophy competition.
After a promising start including a third place in the opening race at Monza, sponsors Media Markt and Xiaomi now joined Löhner to keep his season going for the rest of the year. "Thanks to them I will be able to continue the 2021 DTM Trophy season and actually drive all races!", tweeted the BMW driver who currently sits in fourth in the championship.
The DTM Trophy is contested since 2020 and appears on DTM race weekends using GT4 cars. The 2021 season opened with a double header at Monza won by William Tregurtha and Ben Green.

Moritz Löhner FK Performance DTM Trophy 2021

SimRacer Löhner to continue in DTM Trophy Season

Ready for some story-driven racing action? At EA Play Live, Codemasters announced that GRID Legends is coming in 2022, even presenting a trailer.

The GRID series has been a staple in Codemasters‘ library – and it is going to get a new entry: Set to release in 2022, GRID Legends will take players back to an action-packed race track, including a new, intricate story mode.
Codemasters Senior Game Designer Becky Crossdale gave the game’s trailer a world-exclusive premiere at EA Play Live 2021 – even though it is only 93 seconds, it clearly showed what the game is going to be all about: GRID Legends will feature a story mode filmed with real actos in an extended reality environment.
On the track, the next GRID installment expands its vehicle roster: In addition to touring cars or open wheelers, Legends is going to feature racing trucks, electric vehicles and hypercars as well. Moscow and London have been revealed as new locations. Crossdale also mentioned two new game modes in Boost Mode and Elimination Mode but did not want to reveal anything else – the upcoming months should be interesting in that regard.

GRID Legends Reveal Trailer Screenshot

Codemasters reveals GRID Legends at EA Play Live

At EA Play Live 2021, Codemasters Senior Game Designer Becky Crossdale revealed the latest installment of the GRID series called GRID Legends. The game is set to release in 2022.

Grid Legends   Official Reveal Trailer

GRID Legends EA Play Live 2021 Trailer

As the release date draws closer, more details about WRC 10 have emerged, as Nacon and KT Racing Studio revealed more facts about the upcoming game.

The release of WRC 10 is around the corner: Rally fans have already marked their calendars on September 2nd for the newest edition of the game – publisher Nacon and developer KT Racing Studio now shared some more details about the game’s Anniversary Mode and its pre-order bonus.
WRC 10 wants to celebrate the 50-year history of the World Rally Championship, which is why it comes with an Anniversary Mode. Only three events had been announced so far, with the 2002 Rally Germany, the 2004 Rally Sweden and the 2018 Rally Spain being included as they were different highlights in the career of Sébastien Loeb.
Nacon and KT Racing shared that six rallyes that have never before been featured in a WRC game are going to be included. In total, more than 22 historic events will be in the game, with legends Loeb, Sébastien Ogier, Carlos Sainz, Petter Solberg, Tommi Mäkinen, Colin McRae, Ari Vatanen, Marcus Grönholm, Walter Röhrl and many more being featured.
SimRacers will be able to recreate important moments in the careers of these icons, including their cars and accurate weather conditions of the time. Players that pre-order WRC 10 can look forward to the 1997 Rally Sanremo and get behind the wheel of McRae’s Subaru Impreza as an exclusive bonus.

WRC 10 Screenshot Alpine

WRC 10: New Anniversary Mode, pre-order details released

Motorsport Games has big plans: One of the best-known championships is going to get its own game in 2023.

If Motorsport Games continues making announcements at the current rate, racing fans will have every imaginable discipline of racing at their hands in virtual form: The US-based developer is set to release another game dedicated to a big real-life championship in 2023.
Former WEC CEO and current Motorsport Games advisor Gerard Neveu confirmed in an interview with motorsport.com that the company is working on a full WEC game for 2023, citing the success of the Virtual 24 Hours of Le Mans held in 2020 using rFactor 2.
The World Endurance Championship is currently available across different sims – at least in parts. With a dedicated game, all the cars and tracks should be united under one roof. Whether or not the game is going to be a full sim or more on the arcade side of things has yet to be confirmed, a more realistic approach is possible, however - Motorsport Games has purchased rFactor 2 developer Studio 397 and plans to use the sim's engine for its upcoming NASCAR title.
Just a week earlier, Motorsport Games announced that it would release an IndyCar game in 2023 as well. The North American open-wheel championship has not seen a dedicated game since 2004, when Codemasters released IndyCar Series 2005 – which, weirdly, was based on the 2003 season. Apart from that, the company is also working on a BTTCC game set to release in 2022.

Assetto Corsa Le Mans Screenshot Day

WEC joins Motorsport Games lineup in 2023

As expected, both races of the CUPRA SimRacing Series 2021 at Motorland Aragón were full of excitement . One of the winners was not happy, however.

After the endurance race at the Nürburgring, it was back to two sprint races for round 4 of the CUPRA SimRacing Series 2021. The competition went to Motorland Aragón in Spain and produced two exciting races and a first-time winner in Florian Hasse, who took the top step of the podium in the first race. The other 25-minute sprint was won by Gianmarco Fiduci - who was not as thrilled with his victory as one might have expected.
Heading into the Aragón event as the championship leader, Fiduci (Team Fordzilla) found himself in eighth on the grid after qualifying, with Hasse (Dörr Esports) taking pole position by just .034 of a second over Kirill Antonov (LADA Sportsnet ROSNEFT). The close margin between the German and the Russian turned out to be a sign of things to come in the first race. Rounding out the top 5 were Petr Pliska (Ballas Esports), Bence Bánki (Dörr) and Alessandro Ottaviani (Virtualdrivers By TX3).
<h2>Tight battles as the lights turn green</h2>
While Hasse and Antonov took to door-to-door fights immediately after the start, Pliska was out of contention already - the Italian driver missed the start and had to try and battle through the field from the back. In the initial stages, Pliska had his hands full with Leandro Werle (Snow Schatten Esports) but eventually managed to get past, finishing the race in 15th.
Up front, things got even more intense in the meantime: A four-way battle for P2 between Antonov, Banki, Adam Pinczes (Arnage Competition) and Ottaviani allowed Hasse to pull out a two-second gap, with Fiduci joining the fight eventually. Towards the end of the race, Antonov managed to get clear of the battle behind him, though he did have to keep an eye on his mirrors which were filled with the reflections Banki and Pinczes.
The Russian managed to get closer to leader Hasse, but not close enough - and he did not even get the points for P2 in the end: A well-timed move into the final corner in the final lap saw Banki muscle his way past Antonov who finished third. Meanwhile, Hasse celebrated his first victory - his previous best result was a second place in Silverstone's race 2.
<h2>Fiduci fights his way to the front</h2>
The first-time winner would struggle in the second race of the night, however: Having started 10th, Hasse even dropped down to 12th momentarily, coming home in P9 in the end. Antonov (7th) and Pliska (8th) did not fare much better either - unlike Fiduci: The Italian started in 5th and immediately started gaining positions in the opening laps, pestering race leader Bence Zsupanek (M1RA Esports) as the race went on. Meanwhile, Lucas and Leandro Werle were extremely unlucky: The Brazilians suffered a disconnect and had to retire on the opening lap - a particularly tough break for Leandro who was in second at the time.
Constantly looking for a gap to go by, Fiduci put the pressure on the Hungarian but could not find a way by. Zsupanek handled the quick Fordzilla-liveried car continually showing up in his mirrors well, but two laps from the end, the Italian finally struck. Fiduci gained the lead with a bold move and would not relinquish it until the end - even though the charging Ottaviani got very close after he disposed of Zsupanek as well.
<h2>"Not very proud of that move"</h2>
Fiduci's second win of the season increased his championship advantage to 31 points over Hasse, who moved up to second place - however, the Fordzilla driver was not as jubilant as one might have expected. "I'm not very proud of that move", said Fiduci about his overtake on Zsupanek. "It was a late move because he was covering all the spaces, and when I was alongside him, I locked up." While Fiduci would have liked the move to be cleaner, he also remarked: "I wasn't really happy that I won, but at least it's 50 points.
<a href="https://simresults.net/210715-C3O#practice1" target="_self">Full results</a>&nbsp;
<a href="https://game.raceroom.com/championships/65#content_section_65" target="_self">Championship standings</a>&nbsp;
<h2>Spa leaderboard is open already</h2>
Round 4 of the championship is in the books, round five at Spa-Franchorchamps is set to follow on August 5th. <a href="https://www.simracing-unlimited.com/en/news/cupra-simracing-series-2021-spa-leaderboard-is-live" target="_self">The leaderboard for the event is open already</a>, so if you want to try and be part of the upcoming race, head on track and lay down your fastest lap to qualify.

CUPRA SimRacing Series 2021 Aragón Florian Hasse

Hasse, Fiduci on top in exciting Aragón races

As the CUPRA SimRacing Series prepares for its race at Motorland Aragón, the fourth leaderboard is now closed. The fifth one is now live.

The Cupra SimRacing Series 2021 is heading to Motorland Aragón for its fourth round of the championship – which is going to feature a premiere: The race will be broadcast live here on SimRacingUnlimited for the first time! Meanwhile, the leaderboard for round five is now live – the race is set to be held on August 5th at Spa-Franchorchamps.
With leaderboard 4 being finished, it is time to prepare for the fourth race of the series at Aragón. The first three rounds have produced some exciting, adrenaline-packed racing, with the upcoming round expected to be no exception.
It was a tight battle at the top of the leaderboard: Alessandro Ottaviani set the fastest time at 2:04.206 minutes with Juan Manuel Gomez, Adam Pinczes and Bence Bánki rounding out the top four – all within about a tenth of a second!&nbsp;
Close racing should be on the cards for Aragón then – and for the first time, you will be able to catch all the action right here in the CUPRA hub at SimRacingUnlimited! Don't miss out on another exciting championship round when we go live on July 15th at 6:45pm CEST. Need to catch up on the schedule, the rules or any other info if you want to participate? Find out all you need to know <a href="https://simracing-unlimited.com/en/news/cupra-simracing-series-2021-info-dates-and-rules-at-a-glance" target="_blank">here on SimRacing Unlimited</a> or in the <a href="https://game.raceroom.com/championships/65" target="_blank">Raceroom championship listing</a>.

CUPRA SimRacing Series 2021 Leaderboard 5

CUPRA SimRacing Series 2021: Spa Leaderboard is live!

The ADAC SimRacing Expo is back in 2021 and with it, the SimRacing Trophy and Digital GT500 return. The TCR Virtual Showcase will make its debut.

The SimRacing Trophy is set to be contested using Assetto Corsa Competizione and is split into two classes: While the Pro Trophy class will run GT3 cars, the Community Trophy class is going to race GT4 vehicles. Both will feature two rounds each in the weeks leading up to the Expo, with the pro class looking to determine its semi-finalists while the best Community Trophy drivers will advance to the final – the latter two being held at the Expo. The first two rounds of the Community Trophy will see the appearances of KuruHS (round one) and Jimmy Broadbent (round two) as VIP drivers. If you want to get involved, find the ADAC SimRacing Expo 2021 Community Trophy leaderboard on <a href="https://simracing.gp/" target="_blank">simracing.gp</a>.
<img src="/api/static/a90c7108d0ade5f81f1525b84ea62596.png" alt="SimRacing Trophy 2019" style="height: auto;width: 750px"/>
<h2>SimRacing Trophy schedule</h2>
Round 1 – Community – Zandvoort
Leaderboard: July 12th – July 18th
Multiplayer event (1v1): July 23rd
Round 2 – Pro – Spa-Franchorchamps
Leaderboard: July 19th – July 25th
Multiplayer event (45 minute sprint race): August 5th
Round 3 – Community – Silverstone
Leaderboard: July 26th – August 1st
Multiplayer event (sudden death): August 10th
Round 4 – Pro – Imola
Leaderboard: August 9th – August 15th
Multiplayer event (45 minute sprint race): August 18th
Semi-final – Pro – Nürburgring GP
Date: September 17th
Final – Community – Nürburgring GP
Date: September 18th
Final – Pro – Nürburgring GP
Date: September 18th

The SimRacing Trophy is not going to be the only competition to keep an eye on when visiting the Expo: Up to 28 teams will race in the Digital GT500, with a number of well-known eSports teams like the virtual racing divisions of F1 teams Red Bull Racing and Williams having contested the event in the past. Racers are going to drive any of the available GT3 cars in iRacing and go for the win in a 60-minute sprint race on Saturday, followed by a 2-hour endurance race on Sunday. While the virtual location is already set to be the Nürburgring, the layout variant that is going to be used is yet to be announced.

In addition, the TCR Virtual Showcase will make its debut at the Expo. Developed as an official mod, the TCR cars will be raced in Assetto Corsa. The Nürburgring GP track serves as the host for the practice (20 minutes), qualifying (10 minutes) and race (20 minutes) sessions, with every session taking place on Friday, September 17th.

The ADAC SimRacing Expo is back in 2021 – that means it is time to hit the virtual track in its competitions! Leading up to the September event, racers will be able to compete for a spot in the SimRacing Trophy final set to take place at the Expo and watch the pros compete for a spot at the Expo in their own class. The Digital GT500 will also make its comeback and take place at the Nürburgring while the TCR Virtual Showcase will be contested for the first time.

SimRacing Trophy 2019

SimRacing Trophy and Digital GT500 return to SimRacing Expo 2021 - TCR Virtual Showcase added

The ADAC SimRacing Expo 2021 is set to open its doors on September 17th. To kick off the excitement, the first few exhibitors have been confirmed.

The excitement for SimRacing Expo 2021 is starting to heat up: In a little over two months, the event will be back at the Nürburgring, and the first batch of exhibitors have already been announced. Here is who is going to be there at the legendary Green Hell.
When it comes to high-end pedals, shifters or handbrakes, Heusinkveld has SimRacers covered. The Dutch company has a passion for producing the best possible equipment to take to the virtual race track – at SimRacing Expo 2021, you will be able to try some of Heusinkveld's peripherals to get a taste of their professional SimRacing gear. Additionally, Heusinkveld is the replay sponsor of this year's SimRacing Trophy – more details on the event are set to be released soon.&nbsp;
High-end SimRacing experiences are also what ActoRacer offers. Direct drive, motion systems, immersive sound – ActoRacer provides SimRacers with a complete package. Even PCs are included in their builds, ensuring that everything is running smoothly. Simulators are available for at-home use and professional settings, and visitors get the opportunity to try the rigs at SimRacing Expo 2021.&nbsp;
Immersion is the name of the SimRacing game – which is what drives D-BOX to deliver an exciting experience for simulators. The Quebec-based manufacturer produces motion rigs to take virtual drivers one step closer to feeling like a real racing driver – so real that that their motion feedback solutions are used in pro simulators and even certified by the FIA. At SimRacing Expo 2021, visitors will be able to experience D-BOX's motion feedback system for themselves as the company will attend as an exhibitor.
The ADAC is a household name in Germany and co-host of the Expo, so it is no surprise that the organization is going to feature as an exhibitor as well. The automobile club will offer information about memberships and also present three of its current SimRacing leagues.
In addition, the Expo will feature Next Level Racing as digital exhibitor. Known for producing a number of SimRacing rigs, wheel stands and motion platforms, the company partners with various well-known manufacturers and organizations like Mercedes-Benz, Bosch and even NASA. Next Level Racing will hold a B2B keynote that visitors can watch on a live stream before doors open for the Expo.&nbsp;

SimRacing Expo Exhibitors 2021 1

First exhibitors for SimRacing Expo 2021 confirmed

Fans are eagerly awaiting Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown. Publisher Nacon has revealed the game's release date as well as the new setting.

These various environments will be included in the new game, which is going to be an open-world MMO like its predecessors - meaning the player is going to have tons of spots to explore and discover once Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown is released on September 22nd.
The game's trailer showed various luxury cars racing around tight city streets, a desert and a cargo port, spiced up with hints of the story. "Beside the Solar Crown Tournament, two clans face each other: the Streets and the Sharps. They both share the same love for luxury cars and competition, but each of them has their own view of the world and is ready to fight for it", revealed Beyris. The player is going to join one of these clans and work their way up individually and as a group.

After stops in Hawaii and Ibiza, Test Drive Unlimited is visiting an all-new location in its upcoming installment: Solar Crown is going to be set in Hong Kong - and around the metropolis as well. "When we think of Hong Kong, we think of a big city, an urban jungle full of skyscrapers, luxury cars, et cetera. But behind that are vast, natural landscapes - forests, mountains, marshes, beaches", noted Amaury Beyris, Game and Art Director at TDU's developer KT Racing. "Many environments that fit a car racing game very well."

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown Trailer Screenshot

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown: Location and release date revealed

Lauf 1: 09.09.20 - Hockenheim National

Lauf 2: 23.09.20 - Loch Drummond Long Layout

Lauf 3: 07.10.20 - Anglesey Circuit International GP

Lauf 4: 23.10.20 - Atlanta Motorsport Park

Lauf 5: 04.11.20 - Portland Full Course

Lauf 6: 18.11.20 - Lime Rock Park West Bend Chicane

Lauf 7: 02.12.20 - Zwartkops Raceway

Lauf 8: 16.12.20 - Ahvenisto Race Circuit Park

Lauf 1 15.09.20 - NOLA C-Course

Lauf 2 29.09.20 - Watkins Glen Boot - No Chicane

Lauf 3 13.10.2020 - Road Atlanta

Lauf 4 27.10.2020 - Mosport

Lauf 5 10.11.2020 - Portland Full Circuit

Lauf 6 24.11.2020 - Lime Rock Park - Uphill Chicane

Lauf 7 08.12.2020 - Mid Ohio - No Chicane

Lauf 8 22.12.2020 - Bathurst Mount Panorama

Lauf 1 28.02.2020 - Sebring International Raceway

Lauf 2 27.03.2020 - Interlagos

Lauf 3 08.05.2020 - Le Mans

Lauf 4 19.06.2020 - Watkins Glen

Lauf 5 11.09.2020 - Mosport

Lauf 6 23.10.2020 - Suzuka

Lauf 7 04.12.2020 - TBA

Lauf 1 06.09.2020 - Red Bull Ring

Lauf 2 20.08.2020 - Istanbul Park

Lauf 3 04.10.2020 - Lausitzring

Lauf 4 18.10.2020 - Norisring

Lauf 5 01.11.2020 - Zandvoort

Lauf 6 15.11.2020 - Hockenheimring

Lauf 7 29.11.2020 - Misano

Lauf 8 13.12.2020 - Interlagos

Lauf 1: 14.08.20 - Red Bull Ring

Lauf 2: 30.08.20 - Spa-Francorchamps

Lauf 3: 13.09.20 - Silverstone 

Lauf 4: 27.09.20 - Baku

Lauf 5: 11.10.20 - Istanbul

Lauf 6: 25.10.20 - Zandvoort

Lauf 7: 08.11.20 - Budapest

Lauf 8: 22.11.20 - Fuji

Lauf 9: 06.12.20 - Suzuka

Lauf 10: 20.12.20 - Sao Paulo

Lauf 1: 21.11.20 - Sebering 12h Layout

Lauf 1: 09.09.20 - Nürburgring GP

Lauf 2: 23.09.20 - Shanghai GP

Lauf 3: 07.10.20 - Dubai Autodrome GP

Lauf 4: 21.10.20 - Spa-Francorchamps GP

Lauf 5: 04.11.20 - Road America GP

Lauf 6: 18.11.20 - Suzuka GP

Lauf 7: 02.12.20 - Paul Ricard 1C-V2

Lauf 8: 16.12.20 - Zandvoort GP

Lauf 1: 26.01.20 - Nürburgring

Lauf 2: 23.02.20 - Silverstone

Lauf 3: 22.03.20 - Bathurst

Lauf 4: 19.04.20 - Imola

Lauf 5: 17.05.20 - Zolder

Lauf 6: 14.06.20 - Spa

Lauf 7: 06.09.20 - Dubai

Lauf 8: 04.10.20 - Suzuka

Lauf 9: 01.11.20 - Monza

Lauf 10: 29.11.20 - Road America

Lauf 1: 03.02.20 - Nürburgring

Lauf 2: 02.03.20 - Silverstone

Lauf 3: 30.03.20 - Bathurst

Lauf 4: 27.04.20 - Imola

Lauf 5: 25.05.20 - Zolder

Lauf 6: 22.06.20 - Spa

Lauf 7: 14.09.20 - Dubai

Lauf 8: 12.10.20 - Suzuka

Lauf 9: 09.11.20 - Monza

Lauf 10: 07.12.20 - Road America

Lauf 1: 16.03.20 - Zolder

Lauf 2: 13.04.20 - Spa-Francochamps

Lauf 3: 11.05.20 - Brands Hatch

Lauf 4: 31.08.20 - Laguna Seca

Lauf 5: 28.09.20 - Mount Panorama

Lauf 6: 26.10.20 - Zandvoort

Lauf 7: 23.11.20 - Suzuka

Lauf 8: 21.12.20 - Nürburgring

Lauf 1: 11.02.20 - Imola

Lauf 2: 10.03.20 - Road Atlanta

Lauf 3: 07.04.20 - Zandvoort

Lauf 4: 05.05.20 - Watkins Glen

Lauf 5: 02.06.20 - Spa

Lauf 6: 22.09.20 - Laguna Seca

Lauf 7: 20.10.20 - Mugello

Lauf 8: 17.11.20 - Suzuka

Lauf 9: 15.12.20 - Brands Hatch

Lauf 1: 10.09.20 - Road America

Lauf 2: 24.09.20 - Mosport

Lauf 3: 08.10.20 - Watkins Glen

Lauf 4: 22.10.20 - Mugello

Lauf 5: 05.11.20 - Hungaroring

Lauf 6: 19.11.20 - Estoril

Lauf 7: 03.12.20 - Dubai

Lauf 8: 17.12.20 - Imola

Lauf 1: 25.09.20 - Deutschland

Lauf 2: 09.10.20 - Britische Inseln

Lauf 3: 23.10.20 - Südeuropa

Lauf 4: 06.11.20 - Westeuropa

Lauf 5: 20.11.20 - Nord-/Südamerika

To many fans' delight, F1 2021 recently hit the shelves. SimRacing Unlimited Editor Yannik Haustein shares his first impressions of the new game.

F1 2021: First impressions of a SimRacer who's been out of the loop

Meanwhile, the graphics of the game itself are rather impressive, especially in night races. Sparks are flying, dust gets kicked up convincingly whenever a car strays onto the grass or dirt and the tracks, while not 100 percent accurate, look the part and contribute to a great atmosphere that suggests actually being there. The little things like being able to see fans waving flags on the main grandstand opposite pit lane while you are sitting in the garage make the scenery come alive.
Of course, the most important part of any racing game or sim is the feel of the cars. Having mostly raced in Assetto Corsa Competizione recently, I expected a vastly different experience – and that is what I got. I started off in an F2 car since I wanted to give the all-new Braking Point mode a go – a lively car which is fun to drive, the main thing keeping me from extracting the most performance out of it being my non-familiarity with the Abu Dhabi circuit. After a few tries, I managed to beat the scenario, though, and moved on up to Formula 1.
Funnily enough, you start off in the 2020 F1 season – its cars are nowhere to be found elswhere in the game though. There are the previous year's F2 cars, with the 2021 versions set to follow in an update sometime soon which is also going to add three tracks, namely Imola, Portimao and the all-new Jeddah street circuit in Saudi Arabia. The planned updates to the Melbourne, Abu Dhabi and Catalunya circuits are not in the game, it remains to be seen if they will be added later on. The Chinese Grand Prix is in the game despite not taking place in either 2020 or 2021, but since it was already written into the Braking Point story, the circuit is available. If you want to race in Shanghai in your MyTeam or career mode, you will have to wait until your second season, however.
Speaking of MyTeam, this was one of the modes I was very excited for. I remember drawing up my own F1 cars as a kid, so this looked particlarly promising. So far, it has indeed been really exciting. A big positive is how customizable everything is – you can choose whether you want the full experience or scale it back a little focus more on the racing.

<img src="/api/static/46e770b14962aeeb8c43a7329ecb294e.png" alt="F1 2021 Max Verstappen Silverstone" style="height: auto;width: 750px"/>
For Braking Point, the clear focus is on the on-track action. Like other EA Sports games, F1 got the story mode treatment after the company bought Codemasters. After the first few races, the story of young Aidan Jackson is captivating and will certainly keep me coming back for more. The scenarios the player has to complete prove to be challenging, but doable if you really put in the effort and feel very rewarding when you pass them. The TV news and Twitter feed in between races really add to the immersion, as do the phone calls. It did seem to me that Aidan's mother sounded more like his grandmother, though.
In both modes, I was suprised about the AI in a good way. They are very racy and leave you space most of the time – there were a few occasions where I was turned in on, but that happens in real life as well, so you could chalk it up to simulation value. On the other hand, I experienced multiple instances of the AI being very respectful while racing hard. Specifically, an overtake on George Russell a Melbourne stuck with me: With the Williams driver covering off the inside going into turn 6, I decided to try the outside line, which was super close but worked in the end – a very satisfying feeling, comparable to some online battles.
Multiplayer now features online co-op seasons so you can invite a friend to do a championship together. A neat addition for players who do not want to grind through an entire season by themselves.
However, there are omissions, and one that in my opinion is particularly sad: Classic cars are not in F1 2021. If you are into F1 history, you are out of luck in the new game – though it does feature legends like Michael Schumacher, Ayrton Senna or Alain Prost that you can use in career mode and even sign to your squad in MyTeam.
<img src="/api/static/51c5b9edf7a17cd07f76baf5f8e3caa5.png" alt="F1 2021 Fernando Alonso Alpine Silverstoen" style="height: auto;width: 750px"/>
<h2>Verdict</h2>
All things considered, F1 2021 is a fun experience that with a great replayability value. If you are an F1 fan, the game will tick all the boxes for you, especially since a lot of aspects can be customized to suit your driving style. If ERS management is not your cup of tea, simply switch it to automatic – the same applies for DRS and other elements. Various assists make the game beginner-friendly as well as more accessible to controller users.&nbsp;
The graphics are nice to look at, plus they offer a nice base to take screenshots in photo mode. Audio is fine, too – I particularly liked the option to switch to a sort-of helmet mode while in cockpit cam so everything sounded a bit muffled as if you were wearing a helmet. It is the little things that do wonders for immersion – and it is going to be a tough job to find a game that immerses you in a Grand Prix weekend more than F1 2021.
While not a full sim, it can be set to appeal to more hardcore SimRacers, too, and has some hurdles that come with driving an F1 car. They have unique characteristics – and I am not just talking about the eight gears that had me confused on downshifts from time to time. F1 cars are amazingly fast in corners, which is something that F1 2021 reproduces very well. Most of the time, you will be able to take corners way faster than you would expect – and feel like a racing legend afterwards.

Another year, another installment of Codemasters' F1 series – the 2021 edition of the game is out now and promises further improvements to make the F1 circus come alive in your home. SimRacing Unlimited editor Yannik Haustein has taken a look at F1 2021 and summed up his thoughts for you below.
Formula 1 – an old love of mine, if you will. I used to be completely obsessed with the series but have become somewhat disconnected after the 2009 rule changes. The same goes for the corresponding video games, the most recent one I have played before F1 2021 being the 2014 edition, and that was on controller. I have seen loads of videos on the games in between, so I kind of knew what to expect but was curious about what the newest one had to offer once I dove in myself.
While the menu is nice to look at and intuitive in structure, operating it is a bit of a hassle: There is no mouse support in the PC version, the keyboard and buttons on your wheel being the alternatives. Those buttons are shown as numbers in the menu – so it is up to the player to figure out which number corresponds to which button on the wheel. Not the worst thing in the world, but something that could have been solved a little better.

F1 2021 Silverstone Vettel Leclerc

In the footsteps of Michael Schumacher – How to improve your lap time in virtual and real motorsports with fitness.

Ex-Formula 1 world champion and Mercedes-AMG F1 team boss Niki Lauda was the first driver to realize in the 1970s that he could become faster than his main rival James Hunt with fitness and a healthy diet. But it was Michael Schumacher's idea to travel to Formula One races with a mobile gym that showed all racing drivers that fitness could play an important role in success. His former F1 race engineer Pat Symonds of Benetton once revealed how intensively Michael Schumacher worked on his fitness even as a young racing driver because he was firmly convinced that it would enable him to achieve faster lap times. That was all that mattered to him.&nbsp;
<h2>The world champion's tough training schedule</h2>
He trained his neck muscles for four hours a day alone so that they would not go limp at the end of an F1 Grand Prix despite the enormous centrifugal forces in the corners, which in turn could have led to time-consuming driving errors.&nbsp;
He took his fitness training so seriously that he even had blood drawn during test drives at pit stops to analyze it for its oxygen content under the stresses of a race. The goal was to determine these important performance parameters and thus get the best possible preparation for the stress of a race.&nbsp;
"So unlike another exceptional driver, like Ayrton Senna, Schumacher was able to perform as well in the second half of the race as he did in the first," explained Symonds, who worked with both F1 world champions as a race engineer, in an interview. The training program of Bundesliga soccer players was nothing compared to that of the record world champion in Formula 1.&nbsp;
According to the "Bild" newspaper, professional soccer players spend only eight hours a week on the training pitch, while Schumacher alone trains his fitness for up to six hours a day. Dr. Johannes Peil, who scientifically accompanied his fitness program as a sports physician, once explained that Schumacher rode his bicycle for two to three hours a day, always climbing 1,000 to 2,000 meters of altitude. In addition, there would be extensive strength training, which trains the numerous muscle groups that are used during a race. Conclusion: Schumacher trained as much as seven Bundesliga players put together in one week alone to achieve success, and his successes in motorsport prove him right that fitness is a basic prerequisite for fast personal lap times.
<h2>Do the rules also apply to virtual racing?</h2>
Since I already knew before the GT Academy national finals that I wouldn't have the time to gain driving experience on the real race track, I had to step on the gas all the more in the other disciplines. If I couldn't get the best preparation on the race track, I still wanted to be one of the fittest among the guys so that I could achieve fast lap times this way.&nbsp;
So in the multi-stage fitness test (Bleep Test) at the German GT Academy finals we ran back and forth between two points exactly 20 meters apart. The interval was indicated by a sound signal and gradually shortened. At that time, I counted in my head the time I needed to get from A to B in each step, so I didn't exhaust myself too early, but was able to reach the highest performance level thanks to my fitness training.&nbsp;
My plan to advance one round at the GT Academy via my fitness worked out and also at the RaceCamp in Silverstone victory in a sporty pentathlon - consisting of running, buggy and hovercraft driving as well as cycling and a lap in a racing vehicle - saved me from the first elimination round.&nbsp;
<h2>What demands await in real and virtual racing?</h2>
Record laps are being broken non-stop, and racing cars are getting faster and more durable every year. Motorsport is a technology domain. The lion's share of the money goes into vehicle development and racing. With the advancement of technology, however, the question arises as to how the drivers can cope with the ever-increasing stresses and demands?
Anyone who has ever spent a little longer on an indoor kart track or a racing simulator with proper force feedback and a professional sim-racing brake knows the sore muscles in the arms, hands, upper body, legs and buttocks the next day.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/8837eaae48fe1194fdad6b32b3a9a424.png" alt="Kevin Rohrscheidt" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

But the mental and physical demands before, during and after the virtual and real races should not be underestimated either. In competitive motorsports, higher speeds as well as G-forces also mean more physical demands on a race driver. Most drivers in professional series are between 18 and 30 years old, but in the sport as a whole the age range is much wider.&nbsp;
To ensure that racers - regardless of age and class - are not left to their own devices when it comes to fitness and physical and mental performance, there are sports scientists like Lukas. 
The Cologne student at the German Sports University in his hometown has devoted himself to many sports, research projects and issues related to sports. From thermoregulation of different sports clothes, the influence of oxygen supply in the muscles as well as determining factors of running performance. But his passion has always been motorsports as well. This year he is looking after the drivers of the BMW M2 CS Racing Cup in the DTM.&nbsp;
Until recently, motorsports hardly played a role in sports science, and Lukas made it his mission to decisively change this. In addition to pioneering eye-tracking studies in motorsport between rookies and professional racers, Lukas worked closely with Max Hesse in 2018 as well as 2019, acting as his personal trainer and mental coach.&nbsp;
Thanks to training camps, sports sessions and warm-up programs during TCR Germany race weekends, the duo successfully clinched the overall championship, with Max now making it into the BMW Junior program. Lukas is currently working in Formula 3 and his holistic approach appeals to young drivers who, like me, are convinced that physical and mental fitness can make all the difference.&nbsp;
So what does it come down to when drivers have to withstand the G-forces, vibrations of the car and the physical demands of steering? And which of these are relevant for a SimRacer? 
Lukas briefly summarized the requirements from existing research in his master's thesis:
<ul>
<li>Rapid force development to extend the hip and knee for braking.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Generating and maintaining force and tension through the trunk and neck to resist sustained G-forces.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Shoulder, arm as well as grip strength for steering and control of the vehicle.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Spatial awareness and reactions combined with the ability to multi-task and simultaneously control a car at speeds up to 300 mph.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The ability to maintain elevated heart rates for extended periods of time.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The ability to maintain cognitive performance and decision making.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<img src="/api/static/a1d133f89048eed93c20e1109d138952.png" alt="Kevin Rohrscheidt" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

So you see - the requirements for racing drivers are versatile and multi-layered. In SimRacing, you also have comparable motion sequences and, apart from the sustained G-forces, the requirements are basically similar, even if they are less pronounced. So where can you set the athletic focus at home and thus also benefit in SimRacing? Find out in our next Fit for Racing article in the KEEPONRACING column on SimRacing-Unlimited.com/en.&nbsp;
You can reach Lukas Bastian for a personal fitness program and your questions <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lukas.bastian/" target="_blank">best on Instagram</a> or via email at <a href="mailto:info@lukas-bastian.de" target="_blank">info@lukas-bastian.de</a>.&nbsp;

Fit for Racing

Virtual and real races: Better lap times through the right fitness program

The legendary "Circuit Paul Ricard" is the subject of the new track guide from Codemasters. A video shows how you can best master the track.

The 5.84-kilometer Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet in southern France was already one of the safest race tracks in the world when it was completed in the 1970s. The run-off zones, which were completely new at the time, ensure that driving mistakes don't have to end in a fiasco. Of course, the challenging track can also be found in the current Formula 1 racing game "F1 2020" from Codemasters. The manufacturers provide video tips on how to get the most out of the racetrack.
<h2>How to drive on the road to victory</h2>
A new tutorial video shows how you can best get to grips with the Circuit Paul Ricard, where you should ideally start to overtake and which gears should be used when you race through the corners to reach almost 300 km/h on the straights.
<img src="/api/static/6cfb4762e62bea312cd95634387ba590.png" alt="F1 2020/Codemasters" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>
Not least because of the mixture of different types of curves, which require a high, medium or slower driving style, the Circuit Paul Ricard is also popular as a test track for new vehicle models - this is also ensured by the usually ideal weather conditions, which enable testing at the limits.&nbsp;
In addition to the high-speed straight, the race drivers particularly love the centrifugal forces of up to 5G that prevail when they enter the fast Beausset curve after the straight. In addition, the track offers many opportunities for overtaking, which of course also benefits the excitement and spectator numbers.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPqCjBx1Nw0&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">You can watch the video here</a>, after which you should easily be able to burn better times into the asphalt on the course.

F1 2020

F1 2020 Track-Guide: Circuit Paul Ricard

We were at the opening event of Jochen Schweizer Arena, the future "Home of E-Sport".

You are a motorsport fan and want to get a taste of the world of SimRacing? Your best friend has challenged you to a direct race duel? We take an exciting look into different SimRacing lounges and show you where you can try a virtual ride in a high-end racing simulator in your area. In this article we introduce you to the Jochen Schweizer Arena and the Virtual Experiences section.

Bodyflying, indoor surfing, outdoor activities and helicopter flights - the Jochen Schweizer Arena offers spectacular and exciting experiences in every season. We visited the impressive location in Taufkirchen and took a closer look at the new "Virtual Experiences" area on 300 square meters with the racing simulators at the opening event.

Jochen Schweizer Arena Teaser EN

SimRacing Lounges: Jochen Schweizer Arena - racing simulators

In SimRacing the equipment plays an important role, so you can have as much fun as possible and get your best possible performance.

You want to follow in the virtual footsteps of Max Verstappen and Lando Norris? Your interest in SimRacing has been aroused recently? Just like a real racer, equipment plays an important role in SimRacing, so you can have as much fun as possible and get your best possible performance. In this article we will take a quick and compact look at the heart of the SimRacing rig – the wheel base – and take a look under the hood.

The possibilities to transmit haptic feedback in the racing simulator are limited. Since there are no G-forces acting like in a real racing car, we have to make do with information from pedals, wheel base, steering wheel and in special cases via a motion system. This makes it all the more important that this feedback reaches us as SimRacers in as much detail as possible so that we can feel grip, road surfaces, bumps and collisions.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/6a49b722a261d4a75fc07721d5edd2cd.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Wheel Base Pic 1" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Perfect start</h2>

The Wheel Base plays a decisive role as steering unit and heart of the SimRacing Rig. The wheel base is the product behind the steering wheel in which electric motors or a belt drive and complex electronic systems are installed. Force Feedback (FFB) is the application of forces to the steering wheel to simulate the reaction of real vehicle components.&nbsp;

What I find exciting is that most manufacturers work with a 20-year-old force feedback technology in which forces and vibrations are generated from a selection of profiles and a limited library of haptic effects. This technology had to take into account the processing power at that time, which means that force feedback technology today has far more potential to reproduce the physics from racing games than we can imagine.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, SimRacers nowadays have a lot of possibilities in the wheel base segment. Basically, the more expensive the product, the higher the quality of the built-in technology. From simple electric motors and gear drives, belt drives and servo motors to the so-called Direct Drive models, you are spoilt for choice. You also have to pay attention to which steering wheels and which systems the respective wheel base is compatible with. The possible steering angles also differ depending on the wheel base.

<ul>
<li><a href="https://amzn.to/2Irc8Kr" target="_blank">Thrustmaster T150 PRO ForceFeedback</a> * (Bundle; RRP 249,99 €)&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://amzn.to/3jXWPXA" target="_blank">Logitech G923</a> * (Bundle; 388,95 €)</li>
</ul>

For SimRacing newcomers, Logitech G offers the Logitech G923 - paired with steering wheel and pedals. It promises to be the first steering wheel unit to take advantage of the new generation of force feedback software technology with TRUEFORCE – provided the racing game supports it. Logitech G relies on two motors and one gear drive. This drive allows the steering wheel to be offered at a comparatively low price, but it is also not exactly quiet and not as precise as more expensive models. Thrustmaster also plays in this price segment and offers the Thrustmaster T150 PRO ForceFeedback.



<ul>
<li>Fanatec CSL Elite Wheel Base V1.1 (RRP 349,95 €)</li>
<li><a href="https://amzn.to/33TClJJ" target="_blank">Thrustmaster T300 RS</a> * (Bundle; RRP 399,99 €)&nbsp;</li>
<li>Fanatec ClubSport Wheel Base V2.5 (RRP 549,95 €)</li>
<li><a href="https://amzn.to/3nK84Fd" target="_blank">Thrustmaster TS-XW Racer Sparco P310 Competition Mod</a> * (Bundle; RRP 649,99 €)&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<img src="/api/static/3134004dff0d15f31e4140f198c83b5d.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Wheel Base Pic 2" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Full power with belt drive</h2>

Belt-driven steering units offer more smooth running and performance than their gear-driven counterparts. Inside the Thrustmaster T300 RS, for example, a powerful brushless servo motor rotates together with a double belt mechanism.&nbsp;

Fanatec was one of the first companies to use a belt drive and currently has two products in this segment in its portfolio: the CSL Elite Wheel Base and the ClubSport Wheel Base V2.5. The inner workings of the CSL Elite Wheel Base deliver six Newton meters to the steering axle and can therefore guarantee an even power development as well as a precise and fast response without dead centers for all steering wheels of the CSL and ClubSport series. Large ball bearings also ensure low friction. The power of the servo motor does, however, provide audible ventilation, but this is to be expected in view of the long service life of the motor.&nbsp;

At the upper end of this segment is the Fanatec ClubSport Wheel Base V2.5. The belt drive with large ball bearings provides strong and fast force feedback effects. Due to the modular system Fanatec offers you the choice between different steering wheels that fit on the wheel bases.&nbsp;

In addition, for a vibration-free setup it is essential that the Wheel Base is firmly bolted to the frame of a racing seat. Alternatively, you can use a table clamp to mount the Wheel Base on a desk.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/11fd1ffde3e06cd38ed8a7fb2b663283.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Wheel Base Pic 3" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>High-end in every respect</h2>

The ultimate in the wheel base segment are the so-called direct-drive wheel bases. They offer the most authentic and precise driving experience on a racing simulator and are used by most professional racers and e-sports racing experts. The handlebars are directly connected to a large electric motor, allowing extremely fast power and data transfer. You can now feel every bump.&nbsp;

The possible torque is much higher than with belt driven wheel bases and requires responsible use. Especially in case of collisions with your virtual car or an impact you have to be careful – just like with a real steering wheel.&nbsp;

<ul>
<li>VRS DirectForce Pro Wheel Base (RRP 899,99 €)</li>
<li>AccuForce Pro V2 (RRP $999.00)</li>
<li>Fanatec Podium Wheel Base DD1 (RRP 1.199,95 €)</li>
<li>SIMUCUBE 2 Sport (RRP 1.270,00 €)</li>
<li>SIMUCUBE 2 Pro (RRP 1.470,00 €)</li>
<li>Fanatec Podium Wheel Base DD1 (RRP 1.499,95 €)</li>
<li>SIMUCUBE 2 Ultimate (RRP 3.170,00 €)</li>
</ul>

<img src="/api/static/1c1caa2e0576a242f9f4eaf066060535.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Wheel Base Pic 4" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

With its podium series, Fanatec measures itself in the high-end category against brands such as Simucube, AccuForce and the newcomer VRS, which were previously only known for SimRacing coaching. However, with the Fanatec Podium DD 1 and DD2, the manufacturer from Landshut has the only models that are seamlessly compatible with all PS4 and PS4 Pro systems. The engine reaches peak torques of 20 Newton meters for the DD1 model and 25 Newton meters for the DD2 version, comparable to the torque of most real racing cars with power steering.

The Finnish manufacturer Granite Devices with its Simucube brand is considered an expert in this segment. Within the SIMUCUBE 2 product range, you can choose between three options: Sport, Pro and Ultimate. The torque here ranges from 17 to a proud 32 Newton meters. Manufacturers such as AccuForce and Virtual Racing School also have their own steering units with direct drive, but are not as widespread as Fanatec and Simucube.&nbsp;

So, if you are a SimRacing enthusiast who wants to get the most realistic racing experience possible and train for real test and race applications like I do, investing in a wheel base with direct drive makes perfect sense. If the high price is still a deterrent, there is nothing wrong with a belt driven wheel base. For newcomers I recommend a Logitech G923 or Thrustmaster model for the SimRacing entry.
---&nbsp;
The links marked with '*' are so-called affiliate links, which are linked to the Amazon partner program. If a purchase is made via such a link, we will be paid a commission. This helps us to offer our content free of charge. Of course there are no additional costs for you!

SimRacing Hardware Wheel Base Teaser

SimRacing hardware quickly explained: Wheel Base

You want to follow in the virtual footsteps of Max Verstappen and Lando Norris? Your interest in SimRacing has been aroused recently? Just like a real racer, equipment plays an important role in SimRacing, so you can have as much fun as possible and get your best possible performance. In this article we will take a quick and compact look at pedals in SimRacing and what is important about them. 

Since I train with my SimRacing setup mainly for real racing, a realistic driving experience is very important to me. Above all, you can get a more constant performance with the right pedals. Why this is so is explained by the technology in the pedal sets.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/f34040f8d24edf21b0282eb5409d1c07.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Pedals Pic 1" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>What the racing heart desires</h2>

In the early days of racing games, wheel base, steering wheel and pedal unit were typically offered as a bundled set. With a rapidly growing market and further development of technologies, numerous new products and segments were created. Nowadays, there is almost everything the racing heart desires: from inexpensive bundle packages with pedals and steering wheel units to professional hydraulic pedal designs that are in no way inferior to a real racing car pedal set.

Currently, three types of pedals have established on the market – potentiometer-based pedals, pedals with Hall-effect sensor and pedal units with a so-called load cell unit. Translated this means that basically the difference between cheap and expensive pedals lies not only in the quality of worksmanship, but especially in the feel and response of the brake pedal.&nbsp;

The brake pedal in a real car creates an increasing resistance against your foot when pressed. The more you brake, the more force you have to apply. In a real racing car, this can be well over 100 kilograms of brake pressure. Low-priced pedals, on the other hand, feel more even and only stiffen at the end of the stroke. This means that you have to remember the pedal travel on these pedals, whereas on more expensive pedals you hit the right brake pressure more intuitively and repeatedly with the so-called muscle memory.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/eef4181cb4154b2a9f1ff879bab35806.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Pedals Pic 2" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>All beginnings are easy</h2>

A potentiometer is essentially a position sensor. Using a mechanical resistance such as a spring or damper, the position of the pedal is measured and interpreted by the racing game as braking force.&nbsp;

The progressive pedal suspension of the Logitech G923 as well as the Thrustmaster T300 RS even tries to imitate the behavior of a pressure sensitive brake system.

<ul>
<li><a href="https://amzn.to/3k6LEeU" target="_blank">Fanatec CSL Elite Pedals</a> * (RRP 99,95 €)&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://amzn.to/33QQUhk" target="_blank">Thrustmaster T150 PRO ForceFeedback</a> * (RRP 249,99 €)&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://amzn.to/3nJF5Bm" target="_blank">Logitech G923</a> * (RRP 388,95 €)</li>
<li><a href="https://amzn.to/2H4j7s8" target="_blank">Thrustmaster T300 RS</a> * (RRP 399,99 €)&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Hall-effect sensors achieve a result comparable to that of a potentiometer, but measure the distance between a magnet and the sensor itself, which is then converted into an electrical signal and detected by the play as braking force. While still measuring the physical position of the pedal and not the brake pressure, it is less prone to error because we do not have to rely on mechanically moving parts.&nbsp;

<h2>More bite through new technologies</h2>

In higher quality, but also more expensive pedals, durable load cells are integrated into the pedal arm and measure the force exerted on the brake. In contrast to pedals with potentiometers, you can build up a realistic and strong brake pedal pressure and at the same time brake precisely and sensitively with muscle tension just like in a real racing car.&nbsp;

They are insensitive to dust and dirt and wear very little, so they promise high accuracy and durability. In addition, various individual adjustments can be made to the pedals.&nbsp;

•	Thrustmaster T-CLM (RRP 199,99 €)
•	Fanatec CSL Elite Pedals LC (RRP 229,95 €)
•	<a href="https://amzn.to/3iRhCul" target="_blank">Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3</a> * (RRP 359,95 €)&nbsp;
•	Heusinveld Engineering Sim Pedals Sprint (2 pedal set) (RRP 599,00 €)
•	Heusinveld Engineering Sim Pedals Ultimate (2 pedal set) (RRP 1.079,00 €)
•	SIMTAG Hydraulic Pedal (Silver) (RRP 2.286,90 €)

In general, these pedals are also much better manufactured and sometimes rely on stable aluminum and metal constructions to cope with the high braking forces. One or two pedal sets are also available as inverted versions.

Widely used are the price-performance <a href="https://amzn.to/3iRhCul" target="_blank">Fanatec ClubSport V3 pedals</a> *, which are equipped with a 90 kilogram load cell on the brake pedal and contactless Hall sensors on the accelerator and clutch pedal. The Fanatec CSL Elite pedals can be retrofitted with a load cell, while the Thrustmaster T-CLM pedals offer a 100 kilogram load cell and are comparatively new on the market.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/70469b621d673f88157c98e7329cebbd.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Pedals Pic 3" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Footwork like the pros</h2>

If you are willing to make an even higher investment for SimRacing pedals, manufacturers such as Heusinveld Engineering or SIMTAG offer suitable pedal sets for the most realistic feeling in the SimRacing footwell.&nbsp;

These high-end pedals offer additional adjustment possibilities and are used in the most professional racing simulators. With a 120 kilogram load cell in Heusinkveld Engineering Sim Pedals Sprint and a 200 kilogram load cell in Heusinkveld Engineering Sim Pedals, they enable ultimate pedal forces that are otherwise found in formula and LMP cars. The gas and clutch pedals are equipped with hydraulic dampers. Of course, this also has its price.&nbsp;

However, a stable SimRacing Rig that does not bend backwards when the brake pedal is pressed harder is a prerequisite for use. From the Logitech G29 to the Fanatec CSL Elite LC pedals and Fanatec ClubSport pedals V3 up to the Heusinkveld Engineering Sim Pedals Ultimate, I have used several pedal units on my own SimRacing Rig at home over the last years.&nbsp;

With this experience I can confirm that better pedals can make you not necessarily faster, but certainly more consistent. Especially with pedals, a bigger investment in load cell pedals is worthwhile, because the driving experience feels much more realistic. For the Fanatec ClubSport pedals V3 I recommend the additional Brake Performance Kit. On the Heusinkveld Engineering Sim Pedals Ultimate, which I currently use, I left out the clutch pedal and did not miss it until now.
---
The links marked with '*' are so-called affiliate links, which are linked to the Amazon partner program. If a purchase is made via such a link, we will be paid a commission. This helps us to offer our content free of charge. Of course there are no additional costs for you!

SimRacing Hardware Pedals Teaser

SimRacing hardware quickly explained: pedals

You want to follow in the virtual footsteps of Max Verstappen and Lando Norris? Your interest in SimRacing has been aroused recently? Just like a real racer, equipment plays an important role in SimRacing, so you can have as much fun as possible and get your best possible performance. In this article we will take a quick and compact look at the link between the driver and the SimRacing Rig – the steering wheel.

The steering wheel is the interface between driver and vehicle or SimRacer and SimRacing Rig. It is the only connection to your sports equipment besides the pedals and the seat. In SimRacing, the better it feels, the more authentic your driving experience. But nowadays SimRacing steering wheels are in no way inferior to their real-life counterparts. Ergonomics, materials, dimensions, knobs and features can be completely identical and thus it would theoretically be possible to use the SimRacing steering wheel in a real race car – provided the electronics play along.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/bcbe120bba13387626c017016172a308.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Steering Wheel Pic 1" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Pure racing feeling</h2>

Soft Alcantara, perforated leather, anodized aluminum or forged carbon - there are no limits to the ideas and SimRacing professionals usually have more than just a steering wheel at home. Different racing disciplines have different requirements for racing steering wheels. Formula or GT cars, rally or drifting – now there is a steering wheel on the market for every racing enthusiast. We present you a selection of the current available steering wheels.&nbsp;

Analogous to our SimRacing hardware-quick-explained-contribution to pedals and wheel bases, you as SimRacing beginners in the low-priced segment are bound to the respective bundle package. However, the steering wheels are also very well made in this segment. The Logitech G923 shines with brushed metal and leather seams like in a real car as well as center markings on the steering wheel rim. The integrated dials are adjustable and colored LEDs show the speed range in supported racing games. Recently even a programmable double clutch allows an even cleaner and faster race start.&nbsp;

In partnership with Sparco, Thrustmaster even offers a one-to-one replica of the Sparco P310 competition racing wheel, developed based on practical experience from the racing departments of leading car manufacturers. With a true-to-the-original diameter of 31.5 cm and a suede-covered steering rim as well as metal shift paddles, you will be able to drive very close to reality, even at a reasonable price. For Ferrari fans, there is even a replica of the 599XX EVO steering wheel in 8:10 scale and the same Alcantara material used for the real Ferrari steering wheels – directly imported from Italy.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/d08cb12fe47403d3ab25b349051d188d.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Steering Wheel Pic 2" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Modular systems and limitless possibilities</h2>

Fanatec awakens your passion for collecting with steering wheel rims with a modular system and free choice in Formula, GT, Drift, Classic or Oval style. The Fanatec ClubSport Universal Hub as well as the Fanatec Podium Hub even allow you to mount original steering wheels from renowned manufacturers such as MOMO, SPARCO or OMP in addition to the Fanatec in-house steering wheel rims from the Fanatec product portfolio. A simple six-screw design allows you to switch between the steering wheels as you like and even position the five controls individually – depending on the chosen steering wheel.

The weight of the steering wheel plays an important role. The lighter the steering wheel, the more direct the force feedback of the wheel base. A light steering wheel allows even faster and more precise reactions if the rear end of the car breaks away or if the car is understeering.&nbsp;

The SimRacing hardware forge from Landshut also offers a wide range of steering wheels at a reasonable price. The CSL steering wheel P1 for Xbox One and PC is currently the most favorable steering wheel of the ClubSport series and presents itself with brushed, anodized aluminum as well as Alcantara cover solidly manufactured and beyond that it is very light with just 970 grams. The RevStripe with the three-digit LED display is also unusual in this price class. An illuminated stripe indicates the next gear change and the display can be used for tuning settings or to display telemetry data. Rally fans can look forward to a WRC edition of the CSL steering wheel P1.

<img src="/api/static/22c588ce566c56b937f8c8b8de63b3f2.png" alt="SimRacing Hardware Steering Wheel Pic 3" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Professional racers feel at home</h2>

In the ClubSport series, changing the steering wheels is even faster with the quick-release fastener system. The highlight of the series is the compact ClubSport Formula V2 steering wheel with a diameter of 27 cm and multicolored LED strips, OLED display and numerous knobs and rotary switches. It gets even more realistic with the upgrade to the Podium Advanced Paddle Module, which is equipped with a dual clutch system and magnetic shift lever with carbon fiber plates. GT3 and Porsche fans have the opportunity to prepare for endurance races with the Podium Button Module Endurance. With the true-to-original replica of the Porsche 911 GT3 R steering wheel, including a larger LED display and the matching buttons and rotary switches from the real racing car, you are well prepared for a long SimRacing night.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

With steering wheels there are hardly any limits to the price. The Italian manufacturer Cube Controls only offers Formula and GT steering wheels, but these offer a really good value. Designed for SimRacing pros and professional racers and all those who want to become one, the steering wheels have a 4.3 inch LCD screen, depending on the model, which you can configure individually, and illuminated buttons, which is absolutely recommended. The front panels in real carbon are a matter of course. Also the gearshifts are in no way inferior to those in a real racing car and the steering wheels are compatible with Wheel Bases from Thrustmaster, Logitech, AccuForce, Fanatec and Simucube. F1 pros like Lando Norris and GT aces like Kelvin van der Linde use the steering wheels from Precision Sim Engineering, which offer Formula and GT variants as well as a model for Le Mans prototypes. Individual steering wheels are also implemented by Precision Sim Engineering, but can only be delivered again from 2021.

SimRacing Hardware Steering Wheel Teaser

SimRacing hardware quickly explained: steering wheels 

In the KEEPONRACING column Kevin gives unique insights into real motorsport.

From fan to driver - what motorsport fan and SimRacing enthusiast doesn't dream of it? But who believes that this dream can actually become a reality for himself? Especially since, unlike many other young racing drivers, I didn't grow up in karting but had my first racing experience with Gran Turismo and my participation in the GT Academy competition. In the second part of my column you can read more about my new racing car and my new racing team this year.

So, I was delighted to be part of the successful RN Vision STS team and to have the opportunity to drive a Porsche Cayman GT4 CS in the hotly contested NES 8 class, another year in the DMV NES 500 Endurance Championship. In doing so, I have to improve my skills as a racing driver enormously again, when I have to fight for places and points, among others with professional drivers and factory drivers like Benny Leuchter in top racing cars from the well-known ADAC TCR Germany Touring Car Championship. It is clear that our team with the Porsche Cayman GT4 CS has the role of underdog in this class, but it is precisely this challenge for us that makes the championship and the races all the more exciting.


<img src="/api/static/38009f1fa35c87b7366d9f807f794b40.png" alt="KEEPONRACING Story 2 Pic 1" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

This development towards the GT4 category means a lot to me, because since my entry into motorsports two years ago, I have been able to improve year by year, so that I am now very happy to be part of the successful team RN Vision STS around my team boss Veit-Valentin Vincentz this year and to share my further development steps and experiences with you on my KEEPONRACING blog.&nbsp;

<h2>David vs. Goliath</h2>

Especially important for me as a young motor sportsman is the fact that RN Vision STS - besides trophy hunting - also focuses on the further development of my driving skills. So every training session and race is accompanied by comprehensive data and video analysis, as I already know it from simracing. In the video on my YouTube channel, my team boss Veit and I also talk about the difference between simracing and real racing. In addition, I will introduce you to my new racing car in a unique predator design and take you for a spin on the Nürburgring Grand Prix circuit. Furthermore.&nbsp;

Before the test drives on the Nürburgring and Zandvoort started, I still lacked a bit of confidence in the car, especially in curves where the car became restless. With increasing confidence, my pace has also improved steadily. The tires usually have even more grip than the car gave me at the first moment, I just got a feel for it and that's a point I was able to improve on at the start of the season at the Lausitzring.

With our second place in the rain race at the Sachsenring, I proved that I have gained confidence in our mid-engine sports car even in wet conditions and it surprised myself how much fun I had in the race in such difficult conditions.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/e360831db1020bcb2db9994645aefb56.png" alt="KEEPONRACING Story 2 Pic 2" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

You can follow my story of simracing in real motorsports this year again on my Instagram-(@keeponracing) and Facebook channel (KEEPONRACING.DE) as well as on <a href="https://keeponracing.de/" target="_blank">KEEPONRACING.DE</a> and my column on simracing-unlimited.com

Keeponracing Story 2 Teaser

KEEPONRACING: Level Up! New car, new team

From fan to driver! In the KEEPONRACING column Kevin gives unique insights into real motorsport.

Welcome to my KEEPONRACING story!

From fan to driver - which motorsport fan and simracing enthusiast doesn't dream of it? But who believes that this dream can actually become a reality for himself of all people? Especially since, unlike many other young racing drivers, I didn't grow up in karting but made my first racing experiences with Gran Turismo and my participation in the GT Academy competition. 

With the GT Academy competition, the car manufacturer Nissan and the video game brand PlayStation wanted to find out whether a fast PlayStation gamer can also cut a good figure in a real cockpit. Over 100,000 players in Germany took part in the competition. They all fought for a place in the German final and with it the further selection process in the race camp in Silverstone. The winner was offered a contract as a professional Nissan factory racer. Here I made my first experience in a race car on a real race track.&nbsp;

<img src="/api/static/6c6e42c032564fd54c81a5fc3ecc4d3e.png" alt="KEEPONRACING Story 1 Pic 1" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

This experience was so overwhelming that after my seventh place in the race camp I wanted to do everything I could to become a race driver. So, in 2013, the idea for my mission #KEEPONRACING was born from the well-known radio message of the race engineers "Keep on Pushing", i.e. to always give everything in the race. Here, too, I have to give everything I have to go from being a motorsport fan to becoming a motorsport racer.

<h2>Life is too short not to try</h2>

Since I know from my own experience how difficult it is to realize such a dream, I had the idea to write down my story to motivate and inspire other motorsport fans and simracing enthusiasts in my #KEEPONRACING blog.&nbsp;

Because, as they say, without sweat there is no prize. So, I had to overcome many challenges with a lot of perseverance, dedication and passion in order to complete my third racing season as a late entrant, against all expectations in the racing scene.&nbsp;

On my way I learned one thing I want to share with you - there are always different ways into motorsports and you can take up this mission at any age. But you have to keep at it and motivate yourself again and again and literally "Keep on Pushing" yourself to push and push.&nbsp;


<img src="/api/static/01b088cbfe16bc3c1a8f4e3b0826828a.png" alt="KEEPONRACING Story 1 Pic 2" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Surprise debut season</h2>

So I started my first full racing season at the age of 26, after having participated in several virtual-to-real racing competitions and junior scouting. With the BMW M240i Racing in snow and rain at the Hockenheimring, with a Mini Cooper JCW at the Sachsenring, the KTM X-Bow GT4 at the Slovakiaring or at my first race ever directly through Raidillon de l'Eau Rouge in Spa-Francorchamps - with each race I learned a new aspect on my way to becoming a racer.&nbsp;

After my surprising third place in the DMV BMW 318ti Cup championship in my first year as a racer in 2018, I finally knew for myself that it was possible to enter motorsport via Simracing. But, after that, every motor sportsman inevitably has to ask the question: what is still in it for me with my talent and my financial possibilities thanks to my sponsors?&nbsp;
<h2>Passion for endurance races</h2>

That's why I made a conscious decision to participate in the DMV National Endurance Series 500 for an endurance championship. The races, which last several hours, take place on attractive race tracks, were always exciting and demanded everything from the team, drivers and vehicles. Here I was able to build on the success of my first year and win the championship in my class on a BMW M240i Racing with my two team mates.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So after the season I asked myself again the question: how and where do I want to do racing in the future and on which professional level can I drive with my talent and possibilities?

This is a question that every motor sportsman has to answer honestly and self-critically and so I was glad to have the opportunity to gain further experience in the "entry level" of professional motor sports - the GT4 class - during a test with HP Racing International in Portimão and to discuss the next steps in motor sports with the successful team manager and instructor Hari Proczyk.&nbsp;


<img src="/api/static/d8e6189b2d2fe57aefcd958033c872da.png" alt="KEEPONRACING Story 1 Pic 3" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

You can follow my story of simracing in real motorsports this year again on my Instagram-(@keeponracing) and Facebook channel (KEEPONRACING.DE) as well as on <a href="https://keeponracing.de/" target="_blank">KEEPONRACING.DE</a> and my column on simracing-unlimited.com

KEEPONRACING Story 1 Teaser

KEEPONRACING: From fan to driver - how it all began!

In our article we take a look under the hood and dive into the meaning of SimRacing from our point of view.

Virtual Motorsports, E-Racing, SimRacing or E-Sports Racing? There are many buzzwords and terms that are mentioned around our passion. In our article we take a look under the hood and dive into the meaning of SimRacing from our point of view. For this purpose we will introduce you to the term E-Sports Racing. 

Many motorsport fans long for the chance to race a GT3 or GT4 racing car over iconic race tracks like the Nürburgring-Nordschleife and get as close as possible to the dream of a racing driver. Diving into the golden era of motor sports in the cockpit of a Group C monster or formula car from the seventies is now also possible in an authentic way in Simracing, also written Sim-Racing or SimRacing.


<img src="/api/static/60cbbcec661f42e50d47f3e6bd854bed.png" alt="SimRacing E-Sports Racing Pic 1" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Ideal training option for racing drivers</h2>

SimRacing is the abbreviation for "Simulated Racing". SimRacing is considered an umbrella term and refers to racing simulations that have implemented racing vehicles and race tracks, and especially the driving behavior, with a very high demand for realism. In contrast to other racing games along the spectrum, the driving dynamic limit range of the vehicles in racing simulations is rather narrow and therefore requires a lot of training laps and patience. This includes numerous other variables such as vehicle tuning, fuel and tire consumption, and changing track conditions. The more realistic, the better.

By simulating vehicle behavior more precisely, the racing simulation can pass on more data and information to SimRacing hardware such as force feedback steering wheels and wheel bases as well as pedal units. This makes SimRacing a tool for racing drivers to prepare for real test and race applications and to coordinate new vehicle setups together with the teams. Conversely, for motor sports and racing game fans, this means that they can train and practice the same motion sequences, driving techniques and working methods as a real professional racing driver with a significantly lower budget investment for SimRacing hardware and software compared to real racing.

Weight transfer, tire management and vehicle control at the limits play an equally decisive role both virtually and in reality, and many basic principles can be transferred from SimRacing to real motor sports and vice versa. Lando Norris and Max Verstappen have been active in SimRacing since their youth and have been able to train their skills there. SimRacing is also based on a mixture of driving skills, professional preparation and technical know-how. The biggest difference is the physical aspect of motorsport, especially the G-forces that act on the body in the real vehicle. In addition, there are also real consequences in the event of a claim.&nbsp;


<img src="/api/static/0bd8578a6541704aaa43c157799fe7ed.png" alt="SimRacing E-Sports Racing Pic 2" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Approved as a motorsport discipline</h2>

SimRacing has also recently become an official motorsport discipline. "In no other sport reality and digital simulation are as close to each other as in motor sports", is the opinion of Dr. Gerd Ennser, member of the DMSB's executive committee and responsible for the DMSB's SimRacing activities. "From our point of view, SimRacing can be the entry into motor sports, as it is relatively inexpensive and can be practiced by practically anyone - by the way, also by people with physical disabilities. Concentration, reaction speed and basic technical understanding are perfectly trained in SimRacing. This is also shown by the pilots who have been able to win through in the SimRacing area in junior scouting competitions and have already gained a foothold in real sport. Now we want to make this possible for even more drivers".

Even active racing drivers who hang up their racing shoes can continue to pursue their passion in SimRacing. But it is not only on the driver's side that SimRacing offers possibilities comparable to those in real motor sports. As moderator or commentator, photographer or organizer of virtual race series and races, designer of digital racing paints, team manager or engineer, there are numerous tasks and fields of activity within the SimRacing community with which one can spend even more time than actual driving.


<img src="/api/static/7337b03abd5f54552d69c89d08f7701c.png" alt="SimRacing E-Sports Racing Pic 3" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Reach boom of e-sports racing</h2>

The keywords "e-sports" and "e-sports racing" have recently become increasingly present in the SimRacing community. They refer to the competitive area of SimRacing, but can also include less simulation-oriented racing games. The first World Championship in Grand Prix Legends was held as early as 1998. At that time, 20 drivers competed with steering wheels, joysticks and a modem for a small prize pool in virtual Grand Prix cars.&nbsp;

Then in 2008, Sony PlayStation and Nissan Motorsport launched GT Academy on the popular Gran Turismo series, which took winning racing game enthusiasts on a journey into real racing. rFactor 2 was used, among other things, for the Visa Vegas eRace of Formula E, in which professional racers competed against SimRacing pros for a million dollars in prize money.

Both the Formula 1 with its F1 Virtual Grand Prix series and the virtual 24 Hours of Le Mans brought in record numbers of spectators this year. While Formula 1 generated 30 million hits on TV and digital platforms, the first official edition of the Le Mans Virtual 24 Hours, which took place from June 13 to 14, attracted 14.2 million viewers.


<img src="/api/static/c685845b24490bfcd1021f90e4452ad3.png" alt="SimRacing E-Sports Racing Pic 4" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2>Manufacturers and racing series have recognized the potential</h2>

Almost every racing series now deals with SimRacing and E-Sports Racing. Porsche and BMW, in particular, each have their own virtual racing series with attractive prize money at the start with the Porsche TAG Heuer Esports Supercup and the BMW 120 SIM Cup as well as the BMW M2 CS Racing Cup. With the Porsche SimRacing Summit and BMW SIM LIVE, there are even their own SimRacing events at the manufacturers' premises. McLaren and Ferrari are also active in promoting SimRacing drivers with their own programs. The WRC has its own Rallye E-Sports World Championship, the GT World Challenge hosts the SRO E-Sports GT Series, and American racing series such as NASCAR and Indycar also have their own virtual counterparts.&nbsp;

SimRacing and E-Sports Racing therefore offer numerous opportunities not only from a driving or personal point of view, but companies and brands have already recognized the potential and reach in a young and technology-oriented community.

SimRacing E-Sports Racing Title

What is SimRacing and what does E-Sports Racing mean?

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CUPRA SIMRACING SERIES 2021 R1 Hockenheim GP

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CUPRA SIMRACING SERIES 2021 R4 Motorland Aragón GP - Multiplayer Race

CUPRA SIMRACING SERIES 2021 R5 Spa-Francorchamps GP

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SimRacing hardware quickly explained: steering wheels

KEEPONRACING: Level Up! New car, new team

KEEPONRACING: From fan to driver - how it all began!

What is SimRacing and what does E-Sports Racing mean?