Scuderia Corsa competed in a thrilling virtual race as part of the IMSA iRacing Pro Series, proving virtual reality produces real adrenaline.
Drivers Alessandro Balzan, Jeff Segal and Toni Vilander combined their simulator racing skills with their knowledge of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The race was a 90-minute sprint as drivers battled for position simultaneously learning more about the virtual Ferrari GTE. iRacing brought physical strains as drivers battled 85 kilos of braking weight without any help from g-forces. Behind the scenes, engineers gamed strategy planning fuel loads and tire use as the competition yellow awaited.
The racing was as real as any other competition and just as exciting for fans. Balzan challenged for the front of the pack before he was hit with minutes remaining in the race, pushing him outside of the Top 10. Segal and Vilander clashed with competitors as they steered around on-track drama. In a time when social distancing is of utmost importance, iRacing provided the intense rivalry only the IMSA series provides from the safety of our own homes.
Scuderia Corsa and Ferrari are currently preparing for the next IMSA iRacing Pro Series race set to run Thursday, April 30, at Mid-Ohio SportsCar Course. Further preparation raises Scuderia Corsa’s hope to rise through the ranks of iRacing teams.