The “real sport” and eSports are growing closer together again. The German Motor Sport Federation has taken the plunge.
Sim-Racing as a motorsport discipline: In a meeting of the German Motor Sport Federation (DMSB) on October 4, the board decided to officially recognize Sim-Racing as a motorsport discipline.
Simulation and reality are closely related
Professionals train with simulations: According to board member Dr. Gerd Ennser, reality and simulation come closer together in no other sport than in motorsport. There are even many professionals who prepare for real races through Sim-Racing.
In Sim-Racing, the possibilities for customizing vehicles and tracks are so realistic that they can be used for training. Athletes use the simulations to familiarize themselves with unknown tracks before a race.
Furthermore, training for motorsport athletes should become both cheaper and more accessible through Sim-Racing. Rule changes can first be tested in simulations and evaluated by professionals before being applied to real sports.
What is Sim-Racing? In Sim-Racing, realistic conditions of real car races are simulated. Sim-Racing is not just a video game for the couch. Many Sim-Racing fans equip themselves with proper gear:
- Steering wheels
- Gas and brake pedals
- Shifters
- sometimes even special seats that simulate a car seat, with a screen acting as the windshield.
Sim-Racing uses realistic rules, making it closer to real motorsport than many other games are to their real counterparts.
“Casuals” are excluded: The DMSB restricts the inclusion of racing games in sports strictly to Sim-Racing. Simple racing games like console or mobile games are not considered an official discipline.
Clear rules and technical standards are important so that interested parties can truly engage in Sim-Racing and distinguish themselves from those who “just want to play.”
The aim is to reach individuals who genuinely want to dedicate themselves to Sim-Racing as a motorsport discipline.
Easier entry for aspiring professionals: Through Sim-Racing as a discipline, the entry for younger individuals into motorsport is also to be eased. Most players are already in the ideal age range for active motorsport participants (between 18 and 44 years).
Since practically anyone can participate in Sim-Racing, the leap into “real motorsport” would thereby be easier. Those looking to make the jump to motorsport can prepare. For those who want to stay in Sim-Racing or are physically limited, there remains a motorsport discipline where they can participate and excel.
The DMSB’s action aligns with other sports federations. The DFB has already included eSoccer in its program, and there are several professional teams for eSports in football. However, veterans like Uli Hoeneß oppose it.
eSports still has a tough time: Olympics do not want eSports, the arguments for it are weak.
