One million people watched professional race drivers play virtual racing on national TV. Racing games are the only way fans, and drivers satisfy their need for speed. With all significant races canceled due to the coronavirus, virtual sports are all that’s left for motorsports enthusiasts.
Drivers are becoming more popular. They even get new sponsorship deals by racing in a video game. Professional drivers are figuring out how to build their brands. Instead of practicing on the race track, they are learning about Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Twitch.
In the long run, it will help them even when real car races return. They developed a more extensive fan base and a bigger brand. Also, it is a welcome boost to the motorsport world. In recent years, sponsorships and attendance are on a decline. Virtual racing is bringing new fans to the sport.
Virtual Racing with Pro Drivers
According to a sports blog, NASCAR came out with its iRacing Series. It organized a draft with real teams selecting gamers to represent them in the tournament. Some organizations participating in the event are Chip Ganassi Racing, Team Penske, and Joe Gibbs Racing.
Instead of gamers, NASCAR is now doing the same format with professional drivers playing the game. Based on sportsbook pay per head reports, Fox Sports would air the races. The last two races were the most-watched esports event. As a result, other cable networks are trying to organize their virtual competitions.
A betting directory source said that IndyCar would hold a race at the digital Michigan International Speedway. It will air on NBA Sports with Dale Earnhardt Jr. making his debut in the virtual IndyCar circuit.
Also, taking part in the event for the first time is Marco Andretti with his teammate Ryan Hunter-Reay. There will be a total of 31 drivers participating in the game.
