iRacing is an incredibly realistic and exciting online racing platform. If you’re interested in running your first race, read on to learn our tips.
Choose a race and plan ahead
Before starting, it is important to choose a race and plan your time in advance, as races are held at specific times. For example, the Mazda Cup race sessions are held every hour.
To register, choose a race time and wait until the race session starts. You have the option to drive in an ongoing practice session in the meantime. This is a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with the circuit and improve your skills.
Participate in the qualifying session
Once it’s time for the race, you will automatically be transferred to the track. You’ll be entered into a short practice session while everyone joins. Once the time is up, you’ll be entered into your qualifying session.
In qualifying, you’ll drive for timed laps. Your fastest lap time will determine your position on the starting grid. If you choose not to qualify, you’ll be placed at the back of the grid. Once the qualifying session ends, click the green grid button to move to your starting position.
Prepare your car for the start
Depending on the type of race, there will be different types of starts. In standing starts, wait for the green light to appear and simply begin your race. In rolling starts, you will follow the pace car for one or two laps before the race begins. Your spotter will tell you who to follow. There is no passing allowed during pace laps. Once the pace car pulls away, wait for the green light to appear and begin your race.
Focus on making consistent and clean laps
Although it is tempting to try and reach the top of the podium in your first race, it is important to remember that iRacing is a highly competitive virtual sport. Rising through the ranks is hard work that requires practice and dedication. So instead of focusing on the final result, focus on making consistent and clean laps. This will help you improve your skills and prepare for future races.
Don’t give up
If you don’t get the result you were hoping for in your first race, don’t be discouraged. We all start somewhere and it is normal to have ups and downs along the way. Keep practicing and learning, and you will soon see progress in your performance.
We hope this guide has helped you understand how to run your first race on iRacing. Good luck on the track!
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