Formula One Replaces Grand Prix With Virtual Race Driven By Star-Studded Cast
Image via Marco Canoniero / Shutterstock.com
The first Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix went online via a virtual race to protect drivers during the coronavirus outbreak. As several races get postponed in the wake of the virus’ spread, the organization unveiled an esports version to entertain fans through the screens.
“No Grand Prix? No problem. Join us for our first ever Virtual Grand Prix experience,” the description on Formula One’s YouTube live stream reads.
Olympic champion Chris Hoy, former One Direction member Liam Payne, and golfer Ian Poult were amid racers in the likes of Nico Hulkenberg, Lando Norris, and Johnny Herbert during the star-studded race on Sunday.
The 14-lap relay saw Renault’s test driver Guanyu Zhou emerging as the winner, followed by Mercedes’ Formula E star Stoffel Vandoorne in the second place. Zhou clutched the first position 11.392 seconds over Vandoorne in the final lap.
Watch the full race below.
The first #VirtualGP was a 𝘀𝗺𝗮𝘀𝗵 hit 💥
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 23, 2020
From start to finish 👀#F1Esports 🎮 pic.twitter.com/Hum2EYZvRw
After Bear has gone to sleep it’s time for me to have some fun of my own! As many of you know I love racing so I jumped at the chance to be on the grid and race against some real @F1 drivers! Tune in at 8pm. Wish me luck 😅 @williamsracing #VirtualGP https://t.co/ZWachp9q2s pic.twitter.com/Ds9xhYRk4U
— Liam (@LiamPayne) March 22, 2020
🏆 WINNER of #F1Esports Virtual Bahrain Grand Prix!
— Guanyu Zhou (@gyzhou_33) March 22, 2020
🤣 Crazy one! So fun @F1 pic.twitter.com/kwvFbwNkEo
[via CNN, cover image via Marco Canoniero / Shutterstock.com]
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