New content to be added to iRacing's base package

Kevin Watts · Jun 18, 2010

iRacing have announced that they will be added free content to the base package to include two new tracks and two new cars (four if you count the two variations of each car). The base package has come under criticism in the past by racers keen to give iRacing a try so this increase in content is a welcome move.

Christmas is coming early for iRacers, whether they’ve been naughty or nice. iRacing.com is adding a sleigh-load of free cars and tracks to its base package in the weeks and months ahead. You read that right -- free!

iRacing Rookie or veteran, you’ll be able to take advantage of the enhanced base package beginning in early July with the release of legendary Thompson International Speedway, the high-banked Connecticut bull ring that has been synonymous with New England motorsports for more than half a century.

Of course, you’ll need a shiny new car to race at Thompson. How about a Tour Modified? The faster cousin of the SK Modified that has long been a staple of the iRacing garage is poised to join the service as well. iRacers who already own an SK Modified will see the Tour Modified automatically added to their inventory, while those new to the Modified sim racing scene will receive both the SK and Tour Modifieds with a single purchase. Like Thompson, the Tour Modified will be available in early July for practice and hosted racing, with official race series kicking-off in Season Three.

What could be better than a free new track and a shiny new race car? How about a free new track and two shiny new race cars? As hinted a few weeks ago, we’re also adding a street stock to the base package, one fresh from the JR Motorsports shop. Available in late 2010, the street stock will also be free to all iRacers.

Have we forgotten our road racers? Not hardly. One of iRacing’s worst-kept secrets is the fact that we’ll be adding the Mazda MX5 to our stable later this year. But we’ll bet you didn’t know it will be the new road racing rookie car (don’t worry Solstice fans, the Solstice will still be an integral part of iRacing); or that the Mazda will be available in both right hand drive (MX5 Cup) and left hand drive (MX5 Roadster) versions. And yes, as part of the basic package, the MX5 Cup and Roadster will both be free to all iRacers.

Regardless of the steering wheel location, you’ll need someplace nifty to race your shiny new MX5. Where better than (also free) Okayama International Raceway? The former home of the Pacific Grand Prix (1993-94), the 11 turn, 2.3 mile road course is set to join Brands Hatch, Silverstone, Oulton Park, Zandvoort and Phillip Island on iRacing’s expanding catalogue of renowned international circuits in 2011.

We've made our list and checked it twice: that’s two new tracks and two new cars (four if you count both versions of the MX5 and you have purchased the SK Modified). Ho-Ho-Ho!