Simulation has become a vital part of modern racing. Drivers from multiple series and racing disciplines have put digital tracks and cars through their paces to familiarize themselves with the tracks they’ve never raced, or cars they’ve never tracked. As an added bonus, they don't have to put actual miles on the car, or spend the money to run it. This approach to testing and racing has garnered dozens upon dozens of opportunities for drivers who a decade or two ago wouldn't have been given a chance — like Jann Mardenborough’s real-life story of sim driver-become-racer brought to screen in the blockbuster film, “Gran Turismo.”
It’s because of simulators, drivers like Aston Martin F1 ambassador Jessica Hawkins are able to get that next drive. For Hawkins, it was brand ambassador to driver for the British GT Championship, and most recently, surprise track time with Hendrick Motorsports in a NASCAR Cup car at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
