Newcomers to iRacing always ask the same question: Why do so few people drive the Formula 1 car in iRacing?
And honestly, from the outside, it seems contradictory. Formula 1 is the most popular motorsport in the world. iRacing, on the other hand, is the leading platform for professional sim racing.
Shouldn’t they go hand in hand?
Well, no. And here’s why.
The first big surprise for anyone entering this category in iRacing is that there’s only one car available: the Mercedes W13. There are no rival teams. No variety of manufacturers or liveries. Everyone drives the exact same car, with the same look. And that goes against one of the core elements of Formula 1: competition between teams.
On top of that, there’s a major limitation visual customization is heavily restricted. Mercedes doesn’t allow fully custom liveries. You can only change certain colors within predefined patterns. And in a community that loves expressing creativity, this feels like an unfair constraint. It’s like asking an artist to paint, but not letting them choose their own colors.
Another issue is how fast Formula 1 evolves. Technical regulations change every year, designs shift, and what feels current today becomes outdated tomorrow. Other open-wheel cars in iRacing, like the 2017 Dallara F3, remain popular for years. But with Formula 1, if the content isn’t frequently updated, it quickly loses relevance.
Then there’s the technical difficulty. The Formula 1 car in iRacing is unforgiving. It’s extremely hard to drive. It lacks electronic aids like ABS or traction control, and its braking distances are so short that even a tiny mistake can ruin your race. In such a demanding simulator, where any error can be costly, many drivers prefer more accessible cars like the F3 or F4 cars that let you compete with less frustration and more fun.
Moreover, access to the F1 car requires the highest license level in the system: Class A. Not everyone reaches that level. There’s a temporary alternative within a specific series that lets you drive it with a Class C license, but it’s limited to certain days and times. That further reduces the number of people who actually use it.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that iRacing offers many other open-wheel options competing for drivers’ attention. From F4 to Super Formula to IndyCar, all deliver intense, exciting racing with much more active player bases. Many people prefer staying in those categories, where the experience is more accessible and varied.
Can the Formula 1 experience in iRacing be improved? Absolutely.
Despite all the obstacles, it’s still worth it. Because driving a Formula 1 car in iRacing is something truly special. It’s demanding, yes but it’s also incredibly rewarding. If you’ve ever dreamed of knowing what it feels like to be on the edge in the fastest car in the world, this is your chance.
- Remember, you can join iRacing clicking here.
See you on the track!
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