iRacing 2024 Season 3 Development Update

iRacing's New Monte Calrlo Street Stock

Calling all content lovers! iRacing’s 2024 Season 3 is on the horizon, with a launch date just a few weeks away. While the development team is meticulously putting everything through final quality checks, ensuring a flawless experience, we’re excited to see and to share the exciting new content additions coming in Season 3. iRacing promises to reveal more details soon, so check back here!

iRacing's New Monte Calrlo Street Stock
iRacing New Thunderbird Street Stock

 

 

The fan-favorite Street Stock series, consistently ranking #4 on iRacing, is getting a major upgrade! Short track aficianodos have been craving some fresh rides, and now they are here.

Get ready to ditch the museum pieces – two brand new Street Stock bodies, inspired by iconic real-world racers, are tearing onto the track! The art team has outdone themselves, capturing the wear and tear these cars have earned in countless battles.

Now, the big question: where do these newcomers fit in? In order to ensure everyone gets great value, both cars are bundled together for the standard new car price – it’s a two-for-one deal!

But here’s the best part – these new additions are completely optional! If you’re still rocking the classic Street Stock, no problem. We’ll all enjoy the increased variety on the track, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer.

So buckle up, racers! It’s time to take Street Stock racing to the next level!

iRacing Adding Oswego Speedway

Oswego Speedway Races Onto iRacing in Season 3!

Calling all asphalt and dirt racers! Get ready to experience the legendary “Steel Palace” – Oswego Speedway – coming to iRacing in Season 3!

Located near the shores of Lake Ontario, Oswego has been a staple of racing for decades, hosting both dirt and pavement series since 1951. This addition is a long-awaited request from both iRacers and our own staff who’ve visited the track in person.

The beauty of Oswego is its versatility. Throughout the year, real-life crews transform the track by adding and removing massive amounts of dirt. While the virtual artists have it a bit easier in iRacing (no need for heavy machinery!), there’s a chance that iRacing might only have the asphalt oval ready by the time Oswego debuts in Season 3.

But fear not, dirt fans! If the dirt configuration misses the June release, it will be available in a patch shortly after. No matter your surface preference, thrilling Oswego racing awaits!

Last but not least: iRacing is working on a Mini Stock car for a September release!

High-Octane Dirt Action: iRacing 305 Sprint Cars Tear Up Eldora Speedway


(Testing Embed Options)

🏁 Get ready to ignite your excitement as iRacing Dirt 305 Sprint Cars tear up the legendary dirt track at Eldora Speedway! Join us for an electrifying showcase of speed and skill in this pulse-pounding race that guarantees heart-stopping moments and fierce battles.

In this adrenaline-charged event, elite iRacers unleash their 305 Sprint Cars on the unforgiving terrain of Eldora Speedway, navigating every twist and turn with precision and determination. From lightning-quick straights to daring slides, each lap delivers exhilarating wheel-to-wheel racing and jaw-dropping overtakes.

Witness the raw power and agility of these virtual Sprint Cars as drivers tackle the challenging dirt surface, demonstrating their talent and strategic acumen in the pursuit of victory. With intense battles and calculated maneuvers, this race epitomizes the grit and skill of these exceptional racers.

Grab a front-row seat to experience the drama and thrill of iRacing Dirt 305 Sprint Car Racing at Eldora Speedway! Don’t miss out on this chance to immerse yourself in the adrenaline rush of dirt-track racing in the virtual realm.

Share this exhilarating video with your fellow sim racing enthusiasts and let them join in on the excitement!

iRacing 2024 Season 2 Release Note Highlights

iRacing SRX Cars on Dirt 1

iRacing SRX Cars on Dirt 1

Summary

Introducing Tempest, iRacing’s groundbreaking weather system, now live and fully functional, revolutionizing the racing experience with dynamic rain racing. The Road License Type has undergone a transformation, splitting into Sports Car License Type and Formula License Type, enhancing competition pathways for drivers and optimizing participation, competitiveness, and matchmaking.

Embark on an exciting journey with the New Driver Onboarding Experience, designed to swiftly guide all newcomers onto the track. From configuring controls to racing alongside AI Drivers, comprehensive instructions and guides ensure a seamless transition into the world of iRacing.

Additionally, iRacing has revamped the user interface, providing a sleek and intuitive navigation experience for all users. Get ready to dive into the thrill of virtual racing like never before with Tempest and our enhanced features!

iRacing’s ever-expanding lineup welcomes three new cars into the paddock: the Dirt Micro Sprint (available in two models), SRX, and Super Formula Lights. Alongside these thrilling additions, three new tracks have been meticulously crafted for your racing pleasure: Algarve International Circuit (offering four configurations), Millbridge Speedway, and Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli (presenting five configurations).

But the excitement doesn’t end there! Experience the thrill of new racing lines with the addition of a fresh configuration to Kokomo Speedway (Tires Out). Plus, Lime Rock Park welcomes a new configuration (School) as part of an immersive educational initiative.

And that’s not all! Several pieces of content have been generously added to the iRacing base package, now available for FREE to all iRacing members. Dive into the action with Dirt Micro Sprint, Circuit de Lédenon, Motorsport Arena Oschersleben, Snetterton Circuit, and Winton Motor Raceway, enriching your racing experience like never before.

The latest iRacing update brings exciting enhancements to the driving experience. The New Damage Model is now seamlessly integrated into all three new cars, as well as fifteen additional existing models, including all GTE Class and LMP1 Class cars. This overhaul ensures a more realistic and immersive racing experience right from the start.

Our dedicated AI training team has achieved a remarkable feat, conditioning AI Drivers to confidently navigate wet conditions. This means all rain-enabled vehicles now boast fully tuned AI compatibility, allowing for thrilling races regardless of the weather.

Moreover, AI Drivers have mastered the intricacies of driving the Super Formula Lights, Algarve International Circuit (across all configurations), Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli (across all configurations), Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari – Moto, and Sebring International Raceway – Modified.

To further elevate your racing experience, our vehicle dynamics team has meticulously crafted hundreds of optimized vehicle setups, including specialized setups tailored for rain-ready cars. So gear up, adjust your visor, and prepare for an immersive journey as iRacing 2024 Season 2 makes a splash!

 

New Racer Onboarding

iRacing introduces a user-friendly feature tailored to newcomers, ensuring a smooth transition into the world of virtual racing. This feature guides new users through their first on-track experience, offering a choice between Oval or Road content and assisting with control setup and calibration. Users are then led through Practice and Race sessions with AI Drivers, culminating in a directed exploration of iRacing’s wealth of features and a comprehensive “getting started” guide.

By default, this feature is activated for all newly created iRacing accounts, providing an accessible entry point for beginners. For existing accounts wishing to benefit from this assistance, a new toggle in the Settings > User Preferences menu, titled “New Racer Onboarding,” allows activation. Simply toggle this option on, and upon your next login, the guided experience will commence.

Furthermore, as part of this feature, a new public-facing web page has been launched, offering introductory explanations and guides on various aspects of iRacing, including Test Drive, Time Attack, Spectating, Ghost Racing, Time Trial, AI Racing, and Official Racing. This comprehensive guide also includes a New Racer Checklist, suggesting activities for gradually increasing familiarity and proficiency with iRacing.

 

General/Miscellaneous

Adjustments have been made to certain dirt surface parameters in racing, aiming to enhance the tactile sensation of tires on dirt and slightly reduce the speed of racing on slick surfaces. These modifications aim to provide a more realistic and immersive experience for drivers navigating dirt tracks.

 

New iRacing Cars

iRacing Dirt Micro Sprint CarsDirt Micro Sprint Car

Introducing the Dirt Micro Sprint Car, a thrilling addition to iRacing’s Dirt Oval lineup, now ready for testing and racing in this unique environment!

Looking to kickstart your journey on the dirt racing circuit? The Micro Sprint serves as your perfect entry point. Embraced as one of America’s fastest-growing small car classes, these nimble machines often groom future pro racing stars. Whether it’s weekly series, national championships, or prestigious events like the Tulsa Shootout, Micro Sprints offer an affordable and exhilarating path onto the track.

Frequently found tearing up small tracks like the quarter-mile Millbridge Speedway in North Carolina, Micro Sprints pack a punch with their 600cc engine, churning out over 160 horsepower. Perfectly balancing power and approachability, they provide young racers with ample opportunity to hone their skills without feeling overwhelmed. And on iRacing, you’ll have the chance to experience both winged and non-winged configurations, adding to the excitement!

This versatile car comes in two models: Winged and Non-Winged, offering diverse racing experiences. Best of all, it’s included in the iRacing Base Content, available to all Members for FREE! Plus, with the New Damage Model enabled, prepare for a truly immersive and realistic racing encounter with the Dirt Micro Sprint Car.

 

iRacing SRX CarSRX Car

Introducing the SRX, an asphalt and dirt Oval car, now available for purchase and racing!

Legendary racers Tony Stewart and Ray Evernham shook up the racing world with the creation of the Superstar Racing Experience in July 2020. This groundbreaking concept combined elements from past all-star racing series with the excitement of senior tour golf and the grit of weekly short track racing. Featuring six weeks of intense action during the summer on a mix of paved and dirt ovals, the SRX showcased a diverse lineup of racing champions, emerging talents, and even local heroes earning their shot at glory alongside the pros.

Crafted from scratch by Evernham and meticulously built by Fury Race Cars, the SRX car stands apart as a stock car like no other. Powered by 700 horsepower Ilmor V8s and sporting a high spoiler reminiscent of the 1970s, these machines prioritize raw power over downforce, presenting drivers with a thrilling challenge on the track. In iRacing, the SRX car mirrors its real-world counterpart with both paved and dirt tires, offering versatility across various ovals.

And just like in real life, the SRX car in iRacing features the New Damage Model, delivering a heightened level of realism and immersion to your racing experience. Get ready to unleash the power and conquer the track with the SRX!

 

New iRacing Tracks

Millbridge Speedway

Introducing Millbridge Speedway, a thrilling Dirt Oval track now available for purchase and racing!

If you’ve ever wondered where your favorite NASCAR driver hones their dirt racing skills in between Cup Series weekends, look no further than Millbridge Speedway. Situated just half an hour from Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina, this iconic venue has become a hotspot for dirt racing enthusiasts, especially those with aspiring young racers in tow.

From midgets to micro sprints and box stocks, the midweek races at Millbridge draw packed entry lists brimming with talent. Owned and operated by the Burnett family, who took the reins in 2011, Millbridge Speedway has undergone a remarkable transformation from nearly fading into obscurity to achieving cult status among those in the know.

For an authentic Millbridge experience, take the Dirt Micro Sprint for a spin on this quarter-mile bullring. Feel the rush of the track as you navigate its tight turns and exhilarating straights, and discover firsthand why Millbridge Speedway holds a special place in the hearts of its dedicated regulars. Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill of racing at Millbridge Speedway!

Fanatec Frustrations: Navigating the Pitfalls of Customer Service Letdowns

Fanatec Customer Service Failure

Fanatec Customer Service FailureFanatec, a renowned German company specializing in premium sim racing hardware, has earned praise for its top-tier products. However, a dark cloud looms over the brand due to recurrent complaints about its customer service. Simulated racing enthusiasts may find themselves acquainted with tales of frustration and disappointment stemming from Fanatec’s subpar customer support.

Customers have voiced grievances ranging from prolonged wait times to connect with a representative, challenges in obtaining refunds or replacements for faulty products, to unsatisfactory communication from the company. For those contemplating a purchase from Fanatec, it becomes imperative to acknowledge the potential for encountering customer service pitfalls. Prior to making any decisions, delving into product and customer service reviews is advised to gain insights into the company’s performance.

As of the latest update, exercising caution is paramount when considering Fanatec products. This caution doesn’t arise from product defects but rather from the significant customer service challenges reported by consumers. A temporary pause on investing in Fanatec products might be a prudent move until improvements in their customer service become evident.

To further shed light on Fanatec’s service lapses, several videos have surfaced, detailing firsthand accounts of customer grievances. Complementing these visual narratives, various posts on gaming sites, including Reddit, echo the sentiment of Fanatec customer service nightmares. The resounding advice from those who have faced such challenges is clear: steer clear of Fanatec until the company addresses and rectifies its customer service shortcomings.

iRacing 2024 Season 1 Release Notes Highlights

Slinger Speedway Super Late Model Racing
Slinger Speedway Super Late Model Racing
Super Late Model Racing at Slinger Speedway

Hold onto your helmets, iRacers! Season 1 2024 roars to life on December 12th, packed with fresh content, exciting features, and a whole lot of asphalt to conquer. 🔥🏎️💨

Get ready to:

  • Tame the beast: Master the Audi R8 LMS EVO II GT3, a sleek new machine ready to tear up the grid. 🐎
  • Explore uncharted territory: Conquer the iconic Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello (Grand Prix & Short) and the adrenaline-pumping Slinger Speedway (Oval & Figure Eight). 🌎
  • Relive a classic: Experience the fan-favorite Okayama International Circuit (Full & Short) reborn with stunning 2023 data. 🏎️💨

But that’s not all! Buckle up for:

  • Grippier ovals: Phase 1 of the Oval Refresh Project brings realistic track grip changes based on surface temperature. Get ready for dynamic racing! 🌡️
  • Feel every bump: Pioneering 3D curb technology at Mugello and Okayama delivers the most realistic track-edge experience ever. Every curb matters! 🤯
  • Mother Nature joins the party: Bask in the beauty of 3D foliage systems at Lime Rock Park, Okayama, and Virginia International Raceway. 🌳🌳🌳
  • Damage unleashed: 18 car models get the New Damage Model treatment, including NASCAR Cup Series beasts and nearly every Asphalt Oval car! 💥
  • AI takes the wheel: Challenge the Audi R8 LMS EVO II GT3 and HPD ARX-01c on 8 new track configurations. Let the robot wars begin! 🤖🏎️💨

And for the tech wizards:

  • Browse & manage on the go: iRacing Web lets you manage sessions, shop the store, and more directly from your browser. 🌐
  • Smoother visuals, sharper details: Enjoy enhanced graphics, realistic NASCAR hood flaps, and more. 💪
  • Deeper VR immersion: Dive into the action with the latest OpenXR loader update. 🥽

Don’t forget:

  • Hundreds of setups: Get your car dialed in with professionally crafted setups for all new content. 🛠️
  • Updated rules: Stay informed with revised regulations on automated driving inputs and cheating. ⚖️
  • Quick mute: Toggle your voice chat on and off with ease. 🎙️

Key Highlights of iRacing’s 2024 Season 1 Release:

  • Audi R8 LMS EVO II GT3
  • Pending Final Partner Approvals for Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello (Grand Prix, and Short) and Slinger Speedway (Oval, and Figure Eight)
  • Complete update of Okayama International Circuit (Full Course, and Short) based on 2023 data
  • Phase 1 of the Oval Refresh Project
  • Introduction of 3D Curbs at Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello and Okayama International Circuit
  • Implementation of 3D Foliage at Lime Rock Park, Okayama International Circuit, and Virginia International Raceway
  • New Damage Model for 18 vehicle models including Audi R8 LMS EVO II GT3, Dirt Modified (Big Block and 358), HPD ARX-01c, and more
  • AI Racing for Audi R8 LMS EVO II GT3 and HPD ARX-01c
  • AI Racing at 8 track configurations including Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello, Homestead Miami Speedway, Silverstone Circuit, and Slinger Speedway
  • Introduction of numerous professionally crafted iRacing vehicle setups

Additionally, delve into the full details of the 2024 Season 1 Release encompassing various improvements and enhancements across iRacing’s platform, including login upgrades, refined race creation processes, improved AI racing setup, and the integration of iRacing Web functionalities. Please note changes to the Legacy Membersite as part of transitioning to a new anti-cheat system. For detailed information, explore the complete release notes provided here.

SIMULATION IMPROVEMENTS:

Optimization:

  • Enhanced rendering performance for complex scenes during gridding sequences.

Updater:

  • Added several pieces of Rookie content to the REQUIRED downloads list for an upcoming short new player onboarding experience within 2024 Season 1.
    • Formula Vee
    • Street Stock
    • Lime Rock Park
    • USA International Speedway

Physics:

  • Introduction of a new 3D curbs system at select tracks, offering a more realistic experience with fully modeled curbing for better tire interaction.
    • Tracks utilizing the new 3D curbs system: Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello, Okayama International Circuit
  • Improved simulation of porous surfaces’ depth effects on rolling drag for increased realism.
  • Enhanced feeling of surface displacement for grass, dirt, sand, and gravel.

Oval Racing:

  • Released Phase 1 of the Asphalt Oval Refresh Project, focusing on enhanced surface grip levels for a more dynamic racing experience.
  • Adjusted SR adjustments for all Oval track configurations to ensure fairness between small and large ovals.

AI Racing:

  • Expanded AI Racing availability to new cars and track configurations, including AI Drivers’ completion of specialized courses for improved vehicle handling and racing strategies.
  • Addressed various logic bugs within the AI Driver program to enhance their racing behavior.

New Damage Model:

  • Enabled the New Damage Model for specific vehicle models and improved the visual appearance of suspension damage for several cars.

Graphics:

  • Improved Graphics Autoconfig process for better memory utilization.
  • Removed Memory Sliders from the Graphics Options screen.

3D Foliage System:

  • Expanded 3D Foliage to additional tracks for a more immersive visual experience.

Virtual Reality:

  • Updated OpenXR loader to the latest version for improved VR functionality.

Audio:

  • Various fixes and adjustments to engine sounds and low-frequency effects for a smoother audio experience.

Spotter:

  • Adjusted incident thresholds and messages for a more accurate and informative spotter communication.

Pits:

  • Updated war wagons and visual settings for pit crew members for better visibility and performance.

Sporting Code:

  • Updated rules, penalties, and administration sections for clearer guidelines and fairer rulings.

Controls:

  • Added new features and fixes for voice chat, joystick smoothing, and specific hardware support.

Results:

  • Fixed issues with the right-click popup menu on the Results tab for better user interaction

 

CAR UPDATES:

GT3 Series Cars:

  • Increased traction control (TC) system calculation speed.
  • Updated ABS parameters and TC/ABS tables.
  • Tire parameters updated.
  • Fine-tuned Class Balance of Performance.
  • IMSA Series cars’ headlight color adjusted for a warmer appearance.
  • iRacing setups updated.

GTP Series Cars:

  • Increased TC system calculation speed.
  • Tire parameters updated.
  • Improved headlight colors to mimic LEDs.
  • Class Balance of Performance fine-tuned.
  • iRacing setups updated.

NASCAR Cup Series Cars (Gen 6):

  • New Damage Model enabled.

NASCAR Cup Series Next Gen Cars:

  • New Damage Model tuning pass completed.
  • Lowered break limits for nose, front fenders, and rear.
  • Increased break limits and lowered stiffness for rear hood mounts.
  • Fixed issue with disappearing car parts based on camera distances.
  • iRacing setups updated.

NASCAR Xfinity Series Cars:

  • Collision shapes updated for the New Damage Model.
  • Interface model shaders updated.
  • iRacing setups updated.

[Legacy] NASCAR Cup Series Cars (Gen 4):

  • New Damage Model enabled.

Acura ARX-06 GTP:

  • Updated vehicle parameters, including a slight increase in engine torque and downforce.
  • HPD logo replaced with HRC logo on paint scheme patterns.

Aston Martin Vantage GT4:

  • Paddle shift animations added.

Audi R8 LMS EVO II GT3:

  • NEW CAR!
  • Major upgrades include a new aerodynamics package, improved engine intake system, and adjustable dampers.
  • AI Racing available.
  • New Damage Model enabled.

BMW M4 GT3:

  • Adjusted camber, rear toe, and removed caster adjustment.
  • New Damage Model improvements.
  • Separate high beam headlights.
  • Driver paddle shift animation added.

BMW M8 GTE:

  • Fixed crash issue during caution at night with headlights on.

BMW M Hybrid V8:

  • Updated vehicle parameters, including reduced downforce and increased mass.
  • Fixed artwork issue for tires with the old damage model.

Cadillac V-Series.R GTP:

  • Updated vehicle parameters, including reduced downforce, increased drag, and mass.

Dirt Sprint Car:

  • Fixed wing visual flickering issue.

Dirt Street Stock:

  • Updated suspension damage model for the New Damage Model.

Dirt Modified:

  • New Damage Model enabled.
  • iRacing setups updated.

Ford GT GT2 / GT3:

  • Traction Control ON/OFF switch removed, utilizing the 5-second “TC Disable” function.
  • Aerodynamic drag reduced.
  • Differential locking increased.
  • Camber and rear toe adjustment range limits updated.
  • Caster adjustment removed.

HPD ARX-01c:

  • New Damage Model enabled.
  • AI Racing available.
  • iRacing setups updated.

Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO:

  • Various updates, including aerodynamics, suspension, steering, and mass.
  • Decreased engine braking.
  • More locking on power for the differential.
  • Inverted throttle pedal mapping.
  • Garage rearranged for better visibility.
  • Anti-roll bar size options phased out.

Lotus 49, Lotus 79:

  • New Damage Model enabled.
  • Increased front and rear spring rate range maximum.

Lucas Oil Off Road Pro 2 Lite, Lucas Oil Off Road Pro Trucks:

  • New Damage Model enabled.

McLaren MP4-12C GT3:

  • Various updates, including reduced engine torque, drag, and increased downforce.
  • Camber and rear toe adjustment range limits updated.
  • Driver animations updated.

Mercedes-AMG GT3 2020:

  • Camber and rear toe adjustment range limits updated.
  • Driver animations updated.

Mercedes-AMG W12 E Performance, W13 E Performance:

  • Increased floor friction for the New Damage Model.
  • iRacing setups updated.

Porsche 911 GT3 R (992):

  • Rear toe adjustment range limits updated.

Porsche 963 GTP:

  • Updated vehicle parameters, including a slight increase in downforce.

SCCA Spec Racer Ford:

  • New Damage Model textures updated.
  • Fixed transparent tire tread issue.

Skip Barber Formula 2000:

  • Improved tire sounds.

Super Late Model:

  • New Damage Model enabled.
  • iRacing setups updated.

Toyota GR86:

  • Reduced engine braking.
  • Fixed pit lane rolling issue.

[Legacy] NASCAR Cup Chevrolet Impala COT – 2009:

  • New Damage Model activated.
  • Blowover arithmetic updated.
  • iRacing setups refreshed.

[Legacy] NASCAR Truck Chevrolet Silverado – 2008:

  • New Damage Model enabled.
  • Updated nose and rear bumper parameters for enhanced bump drafting.
  • Interface model updated for this truck.

[Legacy] Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (991):

  • New Damage Model enabled.
  • iRacing setups updated.

 

TRACK UPDATES:

Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello:

  • New track available for purchase.
  • Hosts various racing events, including the Italian motorcycle Grand Prix.
  • Includes Grand Prix & Short layouts.
  • Curbs now fully modeled in 3D for realism.
  • AI Drivers trained for both layouts.

Homestead Miami Speedway:

  • AI Racing now available on Road Course A & B.
  • Starting Grids expanded to accommodate 60 cars.

Hungaroring Circuit:

  • Rectified graphical issues with walls in Turns 3 and 10.

Iowa Speedway:

  • Updated object materials for improved lighting and shading.

Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway:

  • Renamed to reflect its new real-world track name.

Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park:

  • Renamed to match its current real-world name.

Michigan International Speedway:

  • Added red and white lines to the restart zone.

Mobility Resort Motegi:

  • Renamed to reflect its current real-world name.

Okayama International Circuit:

  • Completely rebuilt using the latest track building tools.
  • Reconstructed from 2023 laser scan data.
  • Curbs now fully modeled in 3D for realism.
  • 3D Foliage System introduced.

Silverstone Circuit:

  • AI Racing now accessible on International & National layouts.
  • Removed four pit stalls from the National configuration.

Slinger Speedway:

  • New asphalt oval track available.
  • Known for its high-banked corners and fast laps.
  • Offers Oval & Figure Eight configurations.
  • Ready for night racing.
  • AI Drivers trained for both configurations

 

See you in the next race!

P.S. Share your excitement in the comments below! What are you most looking forward to in Season 1? 👇