The digital motorsports campaign in Sri Lanka was launched in November 2019 under the auspices of the Deputy President for Federation International de l’ Automobile (FIA ) Graham Stoker, and saw the subsequent introduction of  the “Speed Runs” – a simulator challenge which was the brain-child of the Ceylon Motorsport Club as part of their outreach programme to garner new talent and enthusiasm for the motor racing and motorsports industry.

Speaking with Sheran Cooke, he added, “Digital motorsports has been progressing rapidly amongst youth around the world, with online international racing events gathering millions of online viewers taking place every year. The advancement of technology has assisted in creating not only high-tech visuals and virtual race tracks but also progressed into creating the ultimate racing experience with race simulators (play seats) that project an actual racing experience. Every turn, every bump on the track is felt by the driver as they immerse into a digital world of racing.”

Armed with 10 state of the art play-seats, The Ceylon Motorsports Club embarked on a six-month adventure around Sri Lanka to educate and encourage the youth about e-motor sports. 

E-racing events were held in Colombo and Matara together with Southern Motorsports club, followed by the finals happening at the Shangri-La Mall in Colombo. An Indian contingent of e-racers were also part of this programme as part of The Ceylon Motorsports Clubs outreach initiative.

As the pandemic struck and lockdown restrictions were imposed, the online gaming presence increased, creating a unique opportunity for the CMSC to launch their “Race from home” campaign. Players and racing enthusiasts were able to compete from the comfort of their own homes. This was a 10 round championship which concluded in in January 2021

CMSC with their drive to keep innovating has introduced a new rally format called the “Dirt Rally Challenge” which is currently in progress.

Given Sri Lanka’s contribution towards the Digital motorsports industry and its progress, the CMSC’s President Niroshan Pereira was elected as the Vice President of the World Digital Motorsports Council.

While encouraging the medium of online gaming, these unique E-sports opportunities have created a wonderful platform for brands to reach out to their potential and existing customers. E-Sports opens up a whole new opportunity for marketers to make their presence felt online by capitalizing on the revenue streams. Brand presence through digital content streaming are some of the ways brands have latched on to promote their products or services

Virtual Racing was recognized by the IOC and the world governing body (FIA) for motorsports, as an Olympic Sport early this year.
Cooke also mentioned, they are hopefully one day Sri Lanka will be in position to put a Virtual Racing driver to compete in this arena. 

Main photo: Sheran Cooke