Institution news
The next edition of the Formula Student Sim Racing series is set to be the biggest yet, with the lineup this year comprising 283 drivers from 73 Formula Student teams, which represent 19 countries across four continents, making this a truly global competition.
"The year on year growth for the FS Sim Race Series is fantastic to see," remarked Dan Jones, Chief Judge for the Formula Student competition. "Starting from the virtual event, running from my home office in 2020, to over 70 teams from all around the world racing and competing in our USP with the Engineering Challenges, it's already developed further and faster than I hoped. I'm looking forward to an exciting season ahead and meeting the teams in person at our live final."
Growing by nearly 50% from 2025, this growth reflects the increasing popularity and relevance of this series for young engineers to participate in and learn new skills in virtual dynamic vehicle setup and race strategy.
"From a stop-gap solution to save Formula Student during the COVID lockdown to a full-time series with a global stage, it’s inspiring to see how this contest is transforming gamers into engineers!" enthused James Montgomery, FS Sim Racing event captain.
The full list of teams can be found on the Formula Student website.
Sim Racing Series overview
The Formula Student Sim Racing Series is open to all Formula Student teams online, combining monthly races from November together with engineering challenges designed to test a team's approach to racing strategy and analysis.
First organised in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 lockdowns as an alternative to the live Formula Student finals event at Silverstone race circuit, the event has been steadily growing due to a dedicated organising committee and a keen following of Formula Student and FSAE teams.
The series culminates with a finals event that take place alongside the main Formula Student event in July, with Queen Mary University of London becoming 2025 champions at the finals that took place at Williams' headquarters at Grove, UK.
While being a fun event, the compeition also provides young engineers with opportunities to develop additional skills in line with the objectives of the Formula Student event, with participants regularly going on to join motorsport teams to assist with vehicle setup and race strategy duties.
What's next
Friends, family and fans can watch the monthly races unfold on the Formula Student YouTube channel, with the first round of racing with full commentary by Giles Cosgrove and Jess Ball taking place on the evening of Saturday 15 November 2025: save the date and watch online.
On behalf of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, we wish all teams the best of luck.