Max Verstappen, the reigning F1 world champion, will kick off his 2025 racing season in an unconventional way by competing in the IMSA Esports Global Championship final at the Daytona International Speedway. However, this time, it won’t be on a physical track. Instead, the Dutch driver will showcase his virtual racing skills, having received a wildcard entry to participate in this top-tier esports event.
Verstappen's passion for sim racing
While Verstappen is gearing up for a potential fifth consecutive Formula 1 title, his passion for sim racing is no secret. The 27-year-old often streams his virtual racing activities on Twitch, balancing these sessions with his demanding F1 schedule.
As a member of Team Redline, Verstappen will once again team up with the outfit for this weekend’s virtual event. His involvement in sim racing has become a noteworthy aspect of his career, and he continues to excel in both worlds.
A virtual return to Daytona
In the IMSA Esports Global Championship final, Verstappen will partner with Gustavo Ariel in a Verstappen.com Racing Acura ARX-06 GTP. This specific car is one that Verstappen tested in real life during a promotional event ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix in 2023.
The virtual race will be held on the Daytona International Speedway’s road course, with a total duration of two hours and 40 minutes. It promises to be an exciting event for fans of both motorsport and esports.
Race details and streaming Information
The Team Redline stream, which will feature Verstappen in action, is set to begin at 6:30 PM GMT. Live coverage of the race will commence at 6:45 PM GMT on both the IMSA and iRacing YouTube channels, featuring a pre-race preview show to build anticipation for the main event.
Verstappen's previous sim racing triumphs
Verstappen’s expertise in virtual racing has already made headlines. Last year, ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, the Dutchman competed in the early hours of the morning in iRacing’s 24 Hours of Spa.
Despite the late-night race, Verstappen went on to secure a fifth-place finish in the F1 race later that day, proving his ability to balance both racing disciplines. His commitment to sim racing even raised concerns from some critics, but Red Bull team principal Christian Horner quickly dismissed any worries.
"Max knows exactly what’s required in a grand prix, and we trust his judgment," Horner responded, downplaying the controversy. "He knows what it takes to drive a Grand Prix car, win Grand Prix, and be a world champion."
Additional Wildcard Entrant: Ferrari Esports team
Verstappen will not be the only wildcard entry in the Michelin 240 event. The Scuderia Ferrari HP Esports Team will also compete in the GTD category, with drivers Lorenzo Manfredotti and Ole Steinbraten taking to the virtual track.
As Verstappen begins his 2025 racing campaign in a virtual competition, his ability to excel in both the real and digital worlds continues to captivate motorsport fans. With a legacy of success in Formula 1 and impressive performances in sim racing, the world champion’s versatility is on full display as he takes on the IMSA Esports Global Championship final.