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A level playing field is rare in motorsports, let alone SimRacing: Different hardware and immensely different software settings usually mean that every competitor has a slightly different experience in their rig compared to the others. Now, Actoracer attempts to eliminate these variables with its AbA Masters: The series will provide everyone with the same base to work with.
This does not mean that Actoracer is going to send out simulators and hard-coded software packages to competitors – quite the contrary, actually: Instead of hopping into their own rigs at home, SimRacers can take part in the competition at AbA-certified racing centers. There, they will take a seat in identical full-motion Actoracer simulators.
Usually, the various setups differ from SimRacer to SimRacer: Different wheel bases or pedals mean different kinds of inputs, which in turn requires different software settings – and that is without individual preferences factored in. Additionally, it is possible to use software settings that offer an advantage on track but do not reflect a realistic driving experience. It is here that Actoracer tries to change things up.
The idea is to give everyone the same conditions to race with. “Thanks to the large network of AbA Motion-certified racing centers, it is possible to create a competitive racing series that can be entered without big financial strains or sponsors to enjoy exciting motorsports” states Thorsten Lingnau, owner of Simulationstechnik Lingnau, who produce the Actoracer Simulators. “Every simulator is going to feature the same settings in software and hardware to highlight driving talent instead of financial advantages, heritage or sponsors.”
The AbA Masters will be based on Assetto Corsa and is set to use the Audi TT RS VLN car. Eight rounds are scheduled, with the Red Bull Ring marking the starting point on October 9th. The finale of the competition will be held at virtual Silverstone on April 23rd, 2023. Preparations are already underway, as Lingnau explains: “There will be limited amounts of entries and classes. Teams have been founded, extensive rulebooks are being created to enable a fair and professional competition.”
Stay tuned for more info on the series as the season opener draws closer. You can take a look at Actoracer’s motion simulators on their website before the series gets underway in the fall.
AbA Masters 2022 – Calendar
- Round 1 – Red Bull Ring – October 9th, 2022
- Round 2 – Brands Hatch – November 5th, 2022
- Round 3 – Zolder – December 11th, 2022
- Round 4 – Nürburgring GP – January 15th, 2023
- Round 5 – Laguna Seca – February 12th, 2023
- Round 6 – Spa-Francorchamps – March 5th, 2023
- Round 7 – Mugello – April 2nd, 2023
- Round 8 – Silverstone – April 23rd, 2023