Max Verstappen faces tougher competition in his e-sport competitions than in F1

Get involved in race simulation

It took Max Verstappen a little while to become truly involved in this discipline. When he had to juggle between school and karting, there was not enough time to really experiment with this virtual branch of motorsport. Additionally, he had to wait for the right equipment and necessary guidance to truly enjoy it and get as close as possible to reality. Initially, for Max Verstappen, race simulation was mainly a way to connect with his team, Redline Team.

The difficulty

Thanks to the evolution of technology, various very important parameters in reality have been transposed into simulation, notably the impact of tire degradation on the car’s behavior as well as the influence of the driver’s behavior on the precise condition of the tires. Depending on the quality and complexity of a simulator, it is also possible to adjust the controls, the force required to brake or turn the steering wheel, etc. It is therefore also a way for some to maintain their skills, and for others to prepare to eventually transition to reality. “I would say that the competition is just as difficult, if not more difficult […] than in real life,” Max Verstappen told The Athletic on the subject.

A thinner boundary than one might think

Let’s remember, modern drivers use the simulator extensively to prepare for races. Unable to drive as much as desired with the cars (especially in F1), spending time on the simulator helps them become more comfortable even in reality. A good portion of racing simulators are designed by former drivers or specialized engineers, bringing them even closer to real cars. It should also be noted that some professionals in the motorsport industry, such as Michelin, have already used simulators to work on their tires.

Spot drivers we wouldn’t see otherwise

The very high cost of involvement in motorsport certainly deters many. With virtual racing, the initial cost is much lower: you can start with a game and a computer or a console. Then, gradually, it’s possible to buy a steering wheel, pedals, then a racing seat, etc. The final expense is lower, in addition to being spread out over time. Furthermore, the boundaries are much less visible and important in simulation. Unlike F1, e-motorsports are not predominantly European. Recruiting drivers this way might help to erase the differences.

The objective of Verstappen

The F1 world champion wants to help e-sport competitors understand the danger of a real-life race: « If I crash, it’s going to cost money, and I can get injured. » All this awareness must take place. He can also guide potential future drivers to improve their lifestyle, gradually pushing them towards the physical condition of an athlete: diet, sleep… it’s a long-term job that requires patience and plenty of advice.

Can it work?

Yes. That’s how Jann Mardenborough, this Briton who got the opportunity to drive for Nissan after winning a contest reserved for Gran Turismo players, started. A film was recently released, recounting this beautiful story: Jann Mardenborough even participated as a stuntman.