Simracing, short for simulation racing, is a form of virtual motorsport that impresses with its highest precision and realism. In contrast to classic racing games, the focus of simracing is on replicating the driving behavior of real racing vehicles as accurately as possible and on the detailed simulation of tracks and external conditions. Simracing appeals to both amateur drivers and professional racing drivers and is increasingly used as a training method and eSports discipline.
A key feature of sim racing is the realistic vehicle physics . Every detail - from tire grip to chassis tuning to aerodynamic influences - is simulated. Factors such as tire temperatures, fuel consumption and weather conditions dynamically influence driving behavior. This means that drivers not only have to be fast, but also need a deep understanding of vehicle technology and racing strategy in order to consistently stay at the top.
The sim racing experience is largely shaped by the hardware used. High-quality steering wheels with force feedback or direct drive, load cell pedals and professional racing rigs ensure that the simulation feels real. Thanks to the feedback of forces in the steering wheel, drivers feel every bump, every loss of grip and every collision - an essential element for driving precisely. Many sim racers rely on moving cockpits (motion rigs) and virtual reality (VR) to make the experience even more immersive.
Platforms such as iRacing, Assetto Corsa, rFactor 2 and Automobilista 2 offer detailed racing simulations and faithfully recreated tracks, often created using laser scanning technology . These platforms allow drivers to participate in online championships and leagues where sim racers from all over the world compete.
Sim racing has become a fixture in the eSports sector in recent years. Official racing series such as Formula 1, the GT World Challenge or Le Mans hold virtual competitions in which professional racing drivers and sim racers compete against each other. This overlap between the virtual and real racing world shows how close sim racing has come to real motorsport.
For many motorsport enthusiasts, sim racing offers the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing without the high costs and risks of real motorsport. At the same time, it requires the same dedication and focus as real racing, making sim racing more than just a game - it is a serious discipline and a passion that unites people around the world.
