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From virtual to real: F1 eSports champ gets racing opportunity!

F1 eSports world champion Brendon Leigh could find himself racing in the real world next month at the Race of Champions in Riyadh, Saudia Arabia.

Leigh conquered Formula 1's first eSports title in Abu Dhabi last November, beating his 19 sim rivals in a thrilling finale.

The 18-year-old gamer is set to take part in the inaugural eRace of Champions in February, a new competition which will run parallel to the traditional ROC event.

In a series of virtual and real-world challenges, five top sim racers, including Leigh, will fight for the eROC title, with the winner awarded a spot in the main ROC event!

"It was one of my first objectives - to get into real racing cars," said Leigh, who could find himself battling the likes of David Coulthard, Lando Norris or Helio Castroneves.

"I could never have imagined it would be at an event like this. I am excited but also nervous as it will be my first ever time in a real racing car.

"As F1 Esports champion, I'm aware that the spotlight will be on me."

The 30th edition of the ROC will take place on February 2-3 in Riyadh’s King Fahd International Stadium.

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Magali Duqué

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