Current and former Formula One drivers set to compete in Virtual Grand Prix

During the 2020 lockdown, virtual races were a big hit, as the real races could not go ahead and a number of drivers could still be seen in action this way. Formula 1's Virtual Grand Prix series returns at the end of this month, this time for a good cause.

In the official virtual races of Formula 1, sometimes up to half of the grid was in action, including Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly and Carlos Sainz. Max Verstappen was in action in other virtual races last year: He repeatedly expressed at the time that he was not a fan of the official Formula 1 game.

Racer.com reports that a series of three virtual races will start from January 31, in which professional F1 Esports Series gamers will compete in a five-lap sprint race, after which the race will start over a distance of 50% of a normal race.

The races will feature both current and former Formula One drivers, as well as a number of celebrities. Podium places will be rewarded with donations to charity.