National motorsport body Motorsport Australia has extended its existing partnership with sim racing peripherals manufacturer Next Level Racing.
As a result of the extension, Next Level Racing will remain the official esports racing cockpit partner of Motorsport Australia and continues to support its esports initiatives.
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The extension marks three years since the two parties first collaborated. In 2023, Motorsport Australia launched its esports pathway, which featured the launch of a dedicated esports license enabling sim racers to compete in national and international events.
As part of the renewal, members of Motorsport Australia will receive discounts across Next Level Racing’s product range through the body’s members’ rewards programme.
“Next Level Racing’s ongoing support provides competitors with access to world-class simulation technology and equipment,” said Loren Di Pietro, Partnerships Manager of Motorsport Australia.
“This partnership continues to enhance our esports offering while creating new engagement opportunities for members and competitors.”
Next Level Racing will supply Motorsport Australia with a range of hardware that will feature at various activations. At this year’s Formula One Qatar Grand Prix, the two parties will host an esports experience, allowing fans to try the manufacturer’s product range.
Motorsport Bodies And Sim Racing
In 2026, motorsport bodies around the world continue to utilise sim racing as a viable pathway for aspiring drivers to embark on a career in real-world racing. On January 21st, Motorsport UK launched an esports cup offering the winner an opportunity to drive an FIA Cross Car in a testing session and a race of the Cross Car Championship.
In addition to national motorsport bodies, the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) has significantly expanded its presence across sim racing. Since approving an esports framework in 2024, it has applied the sporting code across national events to ensure the International Sporting Code is followed on the virtual racetrack.
Source: https://esportsinsider.com/2026/01/motorsport-australia-next-level-racing-extension
