Formula E launches 'virtual' fan competition

Formula E has launched an sim-racing championship for fans that has a prize fund of 15,000 euros ($17,000).

The electric single-seater championship held its first live gaming event in January in London, pitching fans alongside drivers Bruno Senna and Nicolas Prost in Formula E cars on "Forza 6." It has revived the Race-Off for a second installment in Birmingham, this time with Mexico City winner Jerome d'Ambrosio and Buenos Aires victor Sam Bird.

Now the championship has created the "Race-Off Pro Series," which will be held alongside the on-track campaign. There will be at least four rounds in the build-up to the races in Long Beach, Paris, Berlin and London.

The events will comprise a time trial format, which will be accessible through a "Rivals" event in the Forza 6 Xbox Live lobby and remain open for a week. The fastest 10 players will then compete in a live final.

A grand final, for which the top two finishers from each Pro Series final will be invited, will be held at the London finale in Battersea Park. Competitors in the grand final will have the chance to win a share of the 15,000-euro pot and other prizes.

Formula E Race-Off Pro Series calendar

Round 1 (Long Beach)
Time trials: March 24-31
Final: April 2

Round 2 (Paris)
Time trials: April 14-21
Final: April 23

Round 3 (Berlin)
Time trials: May 12-19
Final: May 21

Round 4 (London)
Time trials: May 26-June 2
Final: June 4

Grand Final
July 2-3

Originally on Autosport.com