How Sim Racing is Changing Lives.

How Sim Racing Is Changing Lives – The Story of Jann Mardenborough

In the early days of motorsport, breaking into racing meant having serious backing—money, connections, and access to track time. Today, that barrier is shrinking, thanks to a game-changing force: sim racing. What once was seen as a casual hobby or video game is now a legitimate gateway to the professional racing world—and it’s transforming lives in the process.

At Apex Race Rooms, we believe sim racing is more than just entertainment. It’s a proving ground, a training tool, and for many, the start of an incredible journey. And no story captures that better than the rise of Jann Mardenborough.

From Bedroom to Podium – Jann’s Story

In 2011, Jann Mardenborough was just like many of us—racing online from his bedroom, competing in Gran Turismo on a PlayStation. No formal racing background. No expensive karting resume. Just raw talent, honed in the virtual world.

That year, he entered the GT Academy, a revolutionary program by Nissan and PlayStation that sought to turn the fastest sim racers into real-world professionals. Out of thousands of competitors worldwide, Jann won.

Within months, he went from a digital cockpit to the real thing—racing against seasoned drivers on iconic circuits. What followed was nothing short of remarkable. Jann secured podiums in British GT, raced in GP3, and even competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he finished third in his class on debut.

His journey blurred the lines between gaming and motorsport—and proved that virtual skills can translate to real-world success.

Why Sim Racing Matters

Jann's story is inspiring, but it’s not unique anymore. Across the world, drivers are emerging from sim racing platforms and making waves in professional series. Why? Because sim racing is:

• Accessible – No travel, no fuel costs, no wear and tear. All you need is a rig and passion.

• Realistic – Today’s sims offer physics and telemetry so accurate that even F1 drivers use them to train.

• Competitive – Online leagues are filled with hungry, high-caliber drivers pushing each other to improve.

• Inclusive – You don’t need a team of engineers. You don’t need to be from a racing family. Anyone can enter.

At Apex Race Rooms, we take that foundation even further—offering a dedicated space where sim racers can train like professionals. Whether you're chasing your first podium in a local league or dreaming of becoming the next Jann Mardenborough, we're here to support that journey.

Your Turn Behind the Wheel

Jann’s journey from console to cockpit was once considered a Cinderella story. Now, it’s becoming a blueprint. With the right mindset, dedication, and environment—sim racing can be your launchpad too.

So what are you waiting for? Step into Apex Race Rooms. Feel the adrenaline. Learn the craft. Change your life.

Ready to take your sim racing to the next level? Book your session today at Apex Race Rooms, here.