iRacing acquires NASCAR’s console video game license

NASCAR announced Thursday that iRacing has acquired its simulation-style console gaming license from Motorsport Games.

The sale will see the license transfer from 704Games, a subsidiary of Motorsport Games, to iRacing. Now, iRacing will develop a NASCAR console game with an expected 2025 release.

“When we were approached with the option to acquire the license for the simulation-style NASCAR console game, which was the console game and franchise that we were dreaming about doing, it was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up,” said iRacing President Tony Gardner. “With all the NASCAR game experience, console experience, resources and technology assets we already have in place, we are in a fantastic position to hit the ground running building a great NASCAR game franchise on the various platforms.”

Motorsport Games obtained the license in 2018 when it acquired majority equity in 704Games. Motorsports Games’ current NASCAR titles, including NASCAR Heat 5 and NASCAR Rivals, will still be available and supported by Motorsport Games through 2024.

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“In our exploration of the sale, we gave due consideration to those companies we believed could develop a great NASCAR game. Both NASCAR and iRacing have been receptive to our proposed change, working with us to architect a positive transition post-sale and we thank them for their support,” said Stephen Hood, the CEO of Motorsport Games.

“NASCAR has the most passionate fans in the world and a vast community that is just as passionate about gaming,” said Nick Rend, the managing director for NASCAR eSports and Gaming. “What’s more, there continues to be tremendous opportunity to connect with millions of potential new fans in the gaming space. iRacing has been an incredible partner and ambassador for the NASCAR industry for more than a decade.”

For more information on NASCAR’s gaming initiatives, visit eNASCAR.com.