Sim Formula Europe 2025 (SFE 2025) promises to be another spectacular event for all sim racing enthusiasts! This sixth edition of the prestigious sim racing competition will take place from 16 to 19 January at MECC Maastricht, simultaneously with the renowned classic car fair InterClassics Maastricht.

With an extensive field of 16 top sim racers, including Jernej Simoncic, the winner of Sim Formula Europe 2024, the event promises to be a battle of epic proportions. Besides the chance to win a share of the impressive €10,000 prize pool, the event also offers the opportunity to experience and test the latest sim racing hardware, games and equipment. This makes SFE a very fun and accessible event where sim racers from all over the world come together.

Whatever your level; Sim Formula Europe 2025 is the place to show your passion for sim racing and get together with avid sim racers. In this article, I will take you through everything you need to know about this event and go out well prepared. Here we go!

What is Sim Formula Europe 2025?

Unique Format and Qualifications

Sim Formula Europe 2025 introduces an innovative format that makes the competition even more exciting. This year, the field of participants will be expanded to 16 top sim racers, a significant growth from previous editions. Eight of these racers have already qualified, but the remaining eight spots will be available through open qualification. These qualifications will take place on Friday 17 and Saturday morning 18 January during the Sim Expo at MECC Maastricht.

The qualifying route is designed for talented sim racers without contracts with major teams and who have not previously competed in major events. This offers emerging talents a unique opportunity to compete with the best. A super fun initiative in my opinion!

The eight fastest racers qualify for the grand final on Saturday afternoon, where they compete for a €10,000 prize pool. This set-up makes for a dynamic and accessible tournament that appeals to both professionals and amateurs.

Well-known Participants and Newcomers

Sim Formula Europe 2025 attracts a mix of established stars and promising newcomers. Among the familiar names is Jernej Simoncic, the winner of the 2024 edition, who will defend his title. We also see former F1 Esports participant Bono Huis of the Mercedes-AMG Esports Team on the entry list, along with Yuri Kasdorp of MOUZ and Rudy van Buren, simulator driver for Red Bull Racing. Other experienced racers such as Lucas Müller, Marcell Csincsik and Devin Braune add extra excitement to the field of participants. These experienced racers have expertise in various platforms such as iRacing and rFactor 2, but this year's final will be driven on a new, secret platform. This will give newcomers the chance to compete against these greats in a level playing field. This unique composition of participants promises an exciting competition, where both experienced racers and rookies can show off their skills.

Admission Prices and Tickets

Entry to Sim Formula Europe 2025 not only offers visitors the chance to see some of the world's best sim racers in action, but also to be part of a vibrant and passionate sim racing community. And yes, I will also be there as media partner from SFE!

Tickets for the event are on sale via the official webshop and also give access to InterClassics Maastricht, held at the same time. This makes the ticket extra valuable for fans of both sim racing and classic cars.

Prices vary depending on the day and admission levels, with special packages available for all four days of the event. Below is a breakdown of costs:

• Day ticket Sim Formula Europe: €8 (pre-sale)
• 4 days of Sim Formula Europe: €16 (pre-sale)
• Combi ticket Sim Formula Europe & Interclassics: € 24,50

Prize pool and rewards

A substantial prize pool of €10,000 is at stake at Sim Formula Europe 2025, making the event extra attractive for both participants and spectators. This prize pool will be distributed among the best sim racers in the competition, meaning the battle for the top spots will be intense and exciting. Visitors can also win prizes every day with their own unique ticket. Cool, right?

In addition to cash prizes, winners will also receive recognition within the international sim racing community, which can boost their careers in this growing sport. Winning this competition not only offers financial rewards, but also opens doors to sponsorship deals and invitations to other prestigious sim racing events.

For newcomers and amateurs, it provides a platform to showcase their talent and potentially be discovered by bigger teams. These rewards ensure that Sim Formula Europe 2025 is not only an exciting experience, but can also be an important step in a sim racer's career.

You can find these brands at SFE!

From 16 to 19 January 2025, MECC Maastricht will be completely dedicated to sim racing during Sim Formula Europe. This unique event brings together the biggest names in the industry and offers visitors the chance to discover the latest technologies and products. Here are some exhibitors you absolutely cannot miss:

Sim Formula Europe 2025 offers a perfect mix of product innovations, interactive demos and inspiring encounters. Whether you are a seasoned sim racer or just starting out, this event is the place to immerse yourself in the world of sim racing. Don't miss it!

What does the programme look like?

During Sim Formula Europe 2025, sim racing enthusiasts can enjoy the Sim Expo, where the latest technologies and equipment will be showcased by top brands. Visitors can attend interactive demonstrations and workshops to improve their knowledge and skills. Don't forget to take part in competitions and contests for a chance to win great prizes such as an advanced sim rig!

Important dates and times

The event will take place from 16 to 19 January at MECC Maastricht.

• Thursday, January 16: Previewday from 12:00 - 20:00
• Friday 17 January: First qualifying rounds from 10:00 - 21:00
• Saturday, January 18: Qualifiers in the morning, final at 14:00, open from 09:00 - 18:00
• Sunday 19 January: Open from 09:00 - 18:00

Location and accessibility

MECC Maastricht is easily accessible and offers ample parking. It is close to the A2 and A79 motorways, with Maastricht Randwyck railway station within walking distance.

Unique competition aspects

The competition uses an unknown platform that is revealed just before the final, ensuring a level playing field. The exact racing conditions remain secret until shortly before the start, which puts emphasis on driving skill and strategy.

Experiences for the sim racing community

Sim Formula Europe 2025 is an opportunity for the sim racing community to come together. Network with professional racers and the industry during workshops, seminars and interactive sessions.

Special events and demonstrations

Enjoy live demonstrations of the latest sim racing software and hardware, showing the technology in action. There will also be spectacular shows, plus Q&A sessions with experts to discuss the future of sim racing.

Will you also come to SFE 2025?

Sim Formula Europe 2025 is more than just an event; it is the meeting place for sim racing enthusiasts and professionals. Get inspired by the latest technologies, test high-end equipment and meet the people behind the brands. Whether you come to learn, network or simply to enjoy everything the sim racing community has to offer, there is something special for everyone.

I can't wait to meet you at this event and share our passion for sim racing together. I will be present on Thursday and Friday. See you then!