Sim racing

Sim racing is the discipline of competitive racing on realistic driving simulators — distinct from arcade racers — using force-feedback wheels, pedals and rigs. Malaysia's national e-Racing squad competes in it.

What is sim racing?

Sim racing is the discipline of competitive racing on realistic driving simulators — software that models real-world physics like grip, tyre wear, fuel use, damage and weight transfer. It is deliberately distinct from arcade racing, where realism is dropped in favour of a pure sense of speed.

Serious sim racing is played on dedicated hardware: a force-feedback steering wheel — high-end rigs use a direct-drive wheelbase — together with load-cell pedals and a rigid cockpit.

A recognised motorsport

Sim racing has real motorsport backing: the FIA-Certified Gran Turismo Championships (from 2018) were the first FIA-sanctioned digital motorsport, and the FIA folded esports into its International Sporting Code in 2024. Major titles include Gran Turismo, iRacing, Assetto Corsa Competizione and EA's F1.

Sim racing in Malaysia

Malaysia's scene is emerging but real, and tightly linked to motorsport. Former F1 driver Alex Yoong coaches the national e-Racing squad and runs a sim racing academy, and there is a documented sim-to-real pipeline — drivers like the Azlan brothers graduated from iRacing to winning the Sepang 1000km.

Frequently asked questions

How is sim racing different from arcade racing?

Sim racing simulates real-world physics — grip, tyre wear, fuel, damage — and rewards genuine driving technique, while arcade racing strips that out for an accessible sense of speed.

What hardware do you need for sim racing?

A force-feedback steering wheel (high-end rigs use direct drive), a set of pedals (ideally load-cell), and a sturdy rig or cockpit to mount them.

See also

From the KITAMEN blog

Sources

Engineer The
Next Reality

Let's Talk