For example, in 2019 virtual racing competitor Enzo Bonito won against former Formula One driver Lucas di Grassi on a real-life race track.
“With games becoming more and more realistic, it has become the equivalent to a training simulation, similar to how pilots train in aircraft simulations.
“Most importantly, the accessibility is different; while F1 races happen once in a while with great fanfare, esports competitors usually can livestream their sessions for hours every day,” said Moe.
The increased accessibility not only reaches non-motorsports fans, it could also bring in substantial revenue from the bigger audience.
Moe added that Malaysians don’t get as much exposure to things they are good at, but the reach and accessibility of esports can help broaden the horizon.
“Now we just need to have a culture that encourages a different path to life, adopting a new way of doing things digitally.
“The one blessing from this pandemic is that it has forced everyone to go digital whether they like it or not, and this could be the first step in the right direction,” he said.
His sentiments are echoed by esports player Rinie Ramli, who said esports is increasingly being accepted by society and the government alike, and has received more coverage and recognition over the years.
Rinie also believes there will be more professional players and teams established from Malaysia playing for international teams in the future.
“International tournaments help to expose local talents to high level competition and skills which can result in local talents being scouted by international organisations.
“I believe virtual racers, just like any other esports athletes, should receive official recognition by government sports agencies in Malaysia,” he said.
These comments come on the back of the recently launched Michelin Virtual Racing Series 2021, with its Time Trial entries ongoing until June 27, followed by Verification Sessions running from June 30 to July 6 and Tournament from July 10 to 18.
The Michelin Virtual Racing Series 2021, open to the public of all ages nationwide, is Michelin’s first major endeavour into the local esports industry.
It will be hosted exclusively on Gran Turismo Sport, and is an official e-Racing sanctioned event under the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM).
Michelin Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei managing director Oliver Biggart said the company sees a potential for the event to expand in the future.
“At the moment, we are looking to explore formats such as these for future e-Racing tournaments, as we hope the success of the Michelin Virtual Racing Series 2021 will allow us to expand and reach fans and enthusiasts all across the region, and eventually globally,” he said.
However, he said there are currently no solid plans in place to make it a regional or global event.
Competitors stand to win a set of Michelin passenger car tyres, Michelin Office Racing Chair, and a cash prize, among others up for grabs.
While the Michelin Virtual Racing Series 2021 is the company’s first major endeavour into the Malaysia’s esports industry, over the past few years Michelin has held several e-Racing events across the region such as Michelin Thailand e-Racing Challenge in October 2020, The Right 2 Race with MPE in July 2019 and the AMX eSport Championship 2021.
If you’re looking for some high-octane fun, register and learn more about the Michelin Virtual Racing Series 2021 event here.