When NASCAR made the call to suspend the 2020 regular season indefinitely in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, a traditionally niche hobby was thrust into the national spotlight to serve as a placeholder until the green flag drops once again. Weekends at the track have been traded for afternoons at the computer with the action moving to iRacing, a PC-based sim racing service that replicates many forms of motorsport, including NASCAR, IndyCar and dirt-track racing.
The cars and tracks featured in the simulation have been laser-scanned in their entirety to ensure every aerodynamic contour and inch of asphalt are accurately reproduced. Tire wear, track temperature and weather conditions are painstakingly modeled to yield a dynamic racing experience that adheres to reality. The service touts a multiplayer competition structure complete with driver skill ratings and safety licenses to encourage clean racing. iRacing is accessible to anybody with a computer, a racing wheel and pedals.
Last month, a grassroots effort among NASCAR drivers and media members resulted in an exhibition iRacing event to fill the sudden motorsports void caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The race featured real-world NASCAR drivers and personalities competing on the iRacing service from their homes. The drivers controlled their cars using everything from modest computer racing wheels to purpose-built simulation cockpits.
The event received a TV-style broadcast and was streamed live to thousands of online viewers. Networks realized the appeal, and Fox worked to launch the eNASCAR Pro Invitational Series, a six-race exhibition featuring over 30 NASCAR Cup Series professionals. Through three races, the series is now drawing over 1 million viewers each week, and iRacing has garnered more attention than it has ever experienced in its nearly 12-year existence.
This weekend, the series heads to its second short track, Richmond Raceway, a 0.75-mile oval that is expected to produce close racing and ignite short tempers. It has been interesting to see how professional driving skill has translated to the simulation. Favorites have emerged early, but many stars of the sport aren't enjoying the success to which they're accustomed.
Here are my picks for the weekend's race.
Note: Odds from Caesars Sportsbook as of Thursday, unless otherwise noted.