Motorsport Australia Pioneers International Esports Training Initiative

Motorsport Australia has successfully hosted an extensive two-day Esports Training Program in Singapore, organised in collaboration with Motor Sports Singapore (MSS) and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).

This groundbreaking event brought together representatives from nine FIA member bodies across the Asia-Pacific, including the Automobile Association of Bangladesh, Automobile Association Philippines, Ceylon Motor Sports Club, Chinese Taipei Motor Sports, Motorsports Association of Malaysia, MotorSport New Zealand Inc., Nepal Automobiles’ Association, and the Royal Automobile Association of Thailand. The agenda focused on the significance of esports and the growing interest in the esports sector within the global motorsport community.

Led by David Mori, Motorsport Australia’s Motorsports Events Manager, the program blended theoretical insights with practical exercises. Participants delved into key topics such as licensing and membership frameworks for esports, strategies for event broadcasting and promotion, as well as officiating structures that guarantee fairness and consistency in competitions.

Mori pointed out the relatively “low cost” of conducting an online esports event, adding that, although in-person esports events may involve more complexity and require higher investments from promoters, they still cost less to organise than traditional live motorsport events.

“In contrast to conventional motorsports, esports aren’t tied to specific regions or cultures, making them appealing to a global audience,” Mori explained.

“In today’s landscape, esports can connect with billions of people at minimal financial expense, creating substantial commercial opportunities.”

Participants engaged in practical workshops that focused on planning and executing esports events, alongside simulations of live race operations.

To enhance the practical execution of concepts learned, participants built upon the ideas generated during the immersive event planning and delivery simulations.

A standout feature of the program was a collaborative session where attendees began formulating a roadmap for a proposed Regional F4 Asia-Pacific Esports Championship. This initiative is designed to bring together FIA member bodies in the region under a unified esports strategy, utilising insights gleaned from the training.

Charlie Barlow, Motorsport Australia’s Development Manager, is at the forefront of driving the nation’s esports programme through an exciting phase of expansion.

“This type of global collaboration expands the reach of each ASN and fosters confidence in brainstorming innovative ideas, addressing existing challenges, and executing successful events through established models,” Barlow said.

Feedback from MSS, FIA, and the participants highlighted the program’s role in enhancing esports across the region. The event underscored Motorsport Australia’s leadership in the esports domain and its commitment to driving innovation within motorsport.

In 2024, Motorsport Australia hosted six Esports National Championships and Cups across categories including Touring Cars, S5000, Formula 4, Formula Vee, Toyota 86, and GT3.

As 2025 approaches, potential candidates interested in becoming the official and exclusive promoter for Motorsport Australia in the organisation and promotion of a National Esports Championship or Cup are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).

For any inquiries regarding Motorsport Australia’s Esports initiatives, please reach out to esports@motorsport.org.au or visit esports.motorsport.org.au.