Toto Wolff observes the increasing importance of simulator work in Formula 1 and motorsport as a whole. The Austrian shares an anecdote about his son and young kart racer Jack Wolff, who also frequently uses the simulator. “He hits the track and is immediately the fastest,” says the proud father.
Simulator work is playing an increasingly significant role in Formula 1. Various teams are employing simulator drivers more frequently to provide valuable feedback. Max Verstappen is also often found in the simulator and even participated in two major simulator races in early January, including the virtual 24 Hours of Daytona.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff sees the growing importance of the simulator in motorsport, largely thanks to his seven-year-old son. “My son is seven years old. He has a kart simulator at home. He races online against others,” Wolff explains to Auto, Motor und Sport. “There are four relevant circuits in Italy. He had never driven on one of them. But he knew it from the simulator.”
No Distinction
The Austrian observed how his son Jack’s preparation immediately bore fruit. “He goes on the track and is instantly the fastest. Then he says to me: ‘I know the track’. I reply: ‘Yes, but only in the simulator.’ He responds: ‘I’m telling you, I’ve been here before.’ Young people no longer distinguish between reality and the virtual world,” Wolff concludes.
The Mercedes team boss recommends simulator work to every driver, but can imagine that it might not work as well for everyone. “The older drivers will probably find it a bit more challenging. And perhaps it doesn’t work for everyone like it does for Max Verstappen,” he adds.
