The SEMA Show is partnering with VRX Simulators to debut VRX Speed Fest, a sim racing competition that merges virtual racing with a live, in-person experience. For the first time, fans and competitors will qualify online and then see the action unfold during the SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 4-7 in Las Vegas, event officials stated in a press release.
The VRX Speed Fest competition is a three-part online qualifier series hosted on iRacing that began on Oct. 4, with the next two parts taking place on Oct. 11 and 18. Top performers will earn their place at the SEMA Show, where they will compete for a turnkey VRX simulator valued at $50,000.
Professional-Level Sim Racing at the SEMA Show
At the SEMA Show, attendees will be able to experience professional-level sim racing firsthand with 20 state-of-the-art racing simulators, interactive zones, exclusive competitions and the energy of esports racing on the world’s largest automotive stage, noted the release.
“This is more than just a competition; it’s the future of motorsports,” said Robert Stanners, CEO of VRX Simulators. “We wanted to create a unique chance for fans to race, connect and experience the intensity of sim racing like never before. With VRX Speed Fest, we now have that.”
Exponential Growth of Sim Racing Offers Marketing Opportunities
The global sim racing market is projected to reach $1.5 billion in 2025 and $5 billion by 2033 (DataInsights Market, 2025), with racing simulators alone expected to grow from $558.5 million in 2025 to $1.86 billion by 2034 (USD Analytics, 2025). This surge is driving demand for hardware, peripherals and aftermarket performance parts. SEMA Show officials say that exhibitors and manufacturers can leverage this trend to showcase innovation, launch new products and connect with a tech-driven audience that values realism and performance.
Beyond manufacturing, sim racing offers brands a marketing platform. With millions of active participants and a rapidly growing global audience, sponsorship opportunities include branded competitions, in-game product placements and influencer partnerships. VRX says that Speed Fest demonstrates how cutting-edge trends are shaping the future of motorsports and why the SEMA Show remains the ultimate stage for companies to capitalize on this momentum.
“Sim racing is reshaping how enthusiasts and businesses engage with motorsports,” said SEMA vice president of events Tom Gattuso. “The SEMA Show’s role is to reflect the industry we represent, create opportunities for companies to highlight innovation and build meaningful connections. VRX Speed Fest does exactly that, bringing together cutting-edge technology, passionate fans and the businesses that drive our industry forward.”
“VRX Speed Fest brings a new dimension to the SEMA Show floor,” said SEMA trade show director Andy Tompkins. “Attendees will not only witness the excitement of competitive sim racing but also experience firsthand how this technology is engaging new audiences and influencing the future of motorsports. It’s an opportunity for everyone, from buyers and media to manufacturers and innovators, to explore latest trends, discover emerging technologies and connect in a dynamic, interactive environment.”