Italian luxury sports car manufacturer, Ferrari, has partnered with luxury watchmaker, Hublot, to launch a new eRacing series. Sim racers will have the opportunity to represent the Ferrari Driver Academy Hublot Esports team. Gaming peripherals manufacturer Thrustmaster, has been confirmed as the Ferrari Hublot Esports Series’ technical partner. Ferrari’s website describes the tournament saying “The best amateur players of Assetto Corsa will be able to initially challenge each other in the section dedicated to them and join the professionals in the final stages in their race for the podium.” Amateur players will compete in four weekly qualifiers during the month of September.
Six players from each qualifier will advance to the AM series for a chance to compete against pros. The Pro Series will take place in October, and feature 24 professional and well-known sim racers. The top 12 drivers from each championship will advance to a final, which at this juncture is slated for November. To compete in the amateur championship, entrants must be a European citizen over the age of 18. The Pro Series is open to other regions in 2020 and allows for a wider range of racing games and platforms.
This series is one to watch, as the clashing of the two eRacing levels should prove to be a launching pad for up and coming sim racers. Nicola Boari, Chief Brand Diversification Officer at Ferrari, spoke with Esports Insider about the new venture, saying “…This series is aimed at young audience and is the perfect opportunity for aspiring players to get their break in esports and sim racing.” The company has really leaned into their esports initiatives; most recently entering the F1 Esports Series, where Italian representative David Tonizza was crowned champion for the Scuderia in his debut season.
For more information on the tournament and Ferrari esports, click here.