2025 IMSA Esports Global Championship Schedule Revealed
The International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) has unveiled the schedule for the 2025 IMSA Esports Global Championship on iRacing, promising an exciting blend of virtual endurance racing that mirrors the real-world series. This premier sim racing event, in partnership with iRacing, Virtual Competition Organisation (VCO), AMD, and Michelin, features a $25,000 prize pool and attracts top teams and drivers from around the world. The four-round series emphasizes multi-class competition in Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) and Grand Touring Daytona (GTD) classes, offering opportunities for aspiring virtual racers to qualify and compete alongside pros. With innovative venue twists and a team-based format, the championship bridges the gap between esports and traditional motorsport.
Overview of the Championship
The 2025 season kicks off less than a month after the real-world Motul Petit Le Mans, aligning closely with IMSA's physical calendar to build excitement. Races are broadcast live on Sundays, starting at 2:00 PM ET via iRacing's channels, YouTube, and Twitch, ensuring global accessibility. The series utilizes iRacing's platform, replicating IMSA's high-fidelity cars and tracks for authentic endurance-style events.
Key features include:
- Classes: GTP (hybrid prototypes like Acura ARX-06, BMW M Hybrid V8, Cadillac V-Series.R, Porsche 963) and GTD (GT3-based cars such as BMW M4 GT3, Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R, Ferrari 296 GT3, Ford Mustang GT3, Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO, McLaren 720S GT3 EVO, Mercedes-AMG GT3, Porsche 911 GT3 R). This setup represents 10 manufacturers and 12 car types, fostering diverse strategies in multi-class racing.
- Team Format: Entries consist of teams with two drivers per car, requiring mandatory driver swaps during pit stops to simulate real endurance racing. Up to 48 teams compete, with automatic qualifications for defending champions and special event winners.
- Prize Pool: $25,000 total, distributed across the top performers in both classes.
Breaking Down the Four-Race Calendar
The compact schedule spans November to December 2025, featuring a mix of returning favorites and fresh additions for added challenge. Each round emphasizes strategic depth, with race lengths designed to encourage alternate pit strategies and driver management.
- Round 1: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – A technical, undulating circuit that demands precise handling in both classes. As a returning venue, it sets a familiar tone but challenges teams with its elevation changes and high-speed corners.
- Round 2: Sebring International Raceway – Known for its bumpy, old-school layout, Sebring tests durability and setup versatility, mirroring the real IMSA 12 Hours event.
- Round 3: Long Beach & VIR (Split Race Twist) – The season's standout innovation: GTP prototypes tackle the tight, urban streets of Long Beach, while GTD cars navigate the flowing, elevation-heavy VIR. This back-to-back format adds unpredictability, forcing specialized strategies per class and highlighting venue contrasts.
- Round 4: Daytona International Speedway – The finale on the high-banked oval-road hybrid emphasizes speed and drafting, providing a dramatic climax with potential for last-minute heroics.
These venues incorporate "twists" like the split race in Round 3, introducing new tracks (Long Beach and VIR) alongside classics to keep competition fresh. Race lengths promote endurance elements, with mandatory swaps encouraging teamwork.
Opportunities for Virtual Racers
The championship is open to all iRacing members, democratizing access to elite esports. Qualification runs from October 6 to October 13, 2025, via public hot lap sessions on iRacing, where drivers post their best times to earn spots. Automatic entries go to:
- GTP/GTD winners from top splits in iRacing's 2025 special events (Daytona, Sebring, Watkins Glen, Petit Le Mans).
- 2024 IMSA Esports class champions.
- Pre-qualified teams like Williams Esports, Grid n Go Esports, Drago Racing, and Team Redline.
Each round includes a "wild-card" entry, offering additional chances for standout performers. Teams and drivers can register per the official rulebook, available on IMSA's site. This structure provides pathways for amateurs to race pros, potentially leading to real-world scouting opportunities in IMSA's talent pipeline.
Conclusion
The 2025 IMSA Esports Global Championship elevates virtual racing with its strategic depth, innovative splits, and inclusive qualification. By featuring GTP prototypes and GTD GT3 cars across iconic venues, it captures the essence of IMSA while opening doors for global talent. With $25,000 on the line and broadcasts reaching fans worldwide, this series is set to thrill—mark your calendars for November 2. For more, visit iRacing or IMSA's esports portals.
