iRacing Acquires NASCAR Game Development Rights from Motorsport Games
Motorsport Games, the official NASCAR game developer, has sold the rights to competitor iRacing. This long-anticipated deal includes the development of an official NASCAR console game, set for release in 2025 across various platforms.
The acquisition of the simulation-style NASCAR console game license was an opportunity that iRacing couldn’t pass up. Tony Gardner, President of iRacing, expressed their excitement and commitment to delivering an exceptional gaming experience for NASCAR fans worldwide. They also assured that they will work closely with NASCAR industry stakeholders to ensure the game’s success.
This sale comes after a series of changes and tumultuous history in the NASCAR gaming rights. In 2015, 704Games secured a deal to create racing games based on the real-world NASCAR series, and in 2018, they extended their agreement with NASCAR until 2029. Motorsport Games acquired 704Games in 2021, gaining ownership of the NASCAR gaming contract.
During their tenure with the franchise, Motorsport Games released several NASCAR games, including NASCAR Heat 5 and NASCAR Rivals. These games will continue to be available and supported by Motorsport Games until 2024 before being removed from sale.
Motorsport Games CEO, Stephen Hood, explained that the decision to sell the NASCAR license was part of a strategic review of the company’s long-term goals. The sale allowed them to focus on other intellectual properties already in advanced development, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, World Endurance Championship, IndyCar, and the British Touring Car Championship.
The sale of the NASCAR license to iRacing, a preferred NASCAR partner, is expected to be beneficial for all parties involved. It will allow Motorsport Games to rebalance their financial obligations and concentrate on their near-term revenue-generating releases. The deal is worth a total of $6 million for Motorsport Games.
iRacing, known for its subscription-based PC-only driving sim, is already an official simulation partner of NASCAR. The new game will be developed for PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Steam (PC). The agreement also grants iRacing the rights to develop some form of a mobile game.
Overall, this acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for NASCAR gaming. Fans can look forward to a highly anticipated, simulation-style NASCAR console game from iRacing in 2025. With iRacing’s expertise and commitment, the future of NASCAR gaming is in good hands.