Dan Hawkins, who coordinates F1 Esports at Codemasters, has disclosed that the F1 Esports environment has consistently lacked a level playing field, primarily because of the distinct properties of the simulation racing series’ physics engines.
Consequently, certain virtual vehicles within the game exhibited superior performance compared to others, granting particular competitors an edge during the official esports tournaments of the Formula One World Championship.
As F1 25 approaches the conclusion of its operational period, Hawkins disclosed that F1 Esports vehicles have consistently maintained unequal performance levels since the series’ inception in 2017. This leads to drivers utilizing specific cars possessing an advantage over rival competitors.
Beyond the impact of physics on performance, the underlying game engine for F1 releases is linked to the frames per second produced. A diminished frame rate frequently leads to a less pronounced perception of track undulations and gravitational forces during turns.
“F1 Esports has never operated on a truly level field,” Hawkins commented in an online communication.
He subsequently stated: “There’s a fundamental reason why a Haas car will never replicate the sensation of the currently superior vehicle within the game. However, you can rectify this by adjusting your FPS to 50, which simplifies the gameplay.”
In 2026, the F1 series will forgo a distinct new title. Instead, a premium add-on for F1 25 is planned, encompassing the eleven teams and their respective drivers participating in the current year’s global championship. Given its nature as an expansion, it is uncertain if the performance disparity stemming from its physics engine will persist should esports events proceed.
F1 Esports Outlook For 2026
After the 2025 F1 Sim Racing season concluded, with Jarno Opmeer emerging as the victor, neither EA Sports nor its affiliated company Codemasters has released details regarding the forthcoming direction of the series.
The previous year’s competition featured thirty participants vying for a total prize fund of $750,000 (~£549,345) over twelve stages, which were held at ESL’s facilities in Stockholm.
