Since its inception in 2020, the iRacing Short Course National Series has served as the proving ground for some of the best off-road sim racers in the world. Over the past eight seasons, it has grown from a small but passionate community to a competitive and professional platform that bridges the gap between virtual racing and real-world off-road action.
Now entering its ninth season, the National Series is set to take things to the next level, with expanded formats, the return of fan-favorite championships, and the debut of an innovative playoff system. The 2025 season represents a turning point in the series' history, combining tradition with cutting-edge developments to elevate the competition and excitement for drivers and fans alike.
Here’s what’s in store for this landmark season:
Pro 4 National Series: The Cornerstone of Competition
The Pro 4 National Series has been the backbone of iRacing Short Course since its early days. For 2025, it’s bigger and better than ever, featuring 10 rounds of intense racing action. Adding to the excitement, three rounds will adopt the Triple Crown format, creating high-stakes, multi-race rounds where every lap matters.
Drivers will compete on some of the most iconic tracks in the series’ history, with the addition of a new venue to test even the most experienced competitors on iRacing.
Pro 2 National Series Returns After a Four-Year Hiatus
For the first time since 2021, the Pro 2 National Series is back! This series was once a favorite among drivers and fans, and its return promises to rekindle that excitement. The 2025 Pro 2 National Series will span five rounds, each utilizing a Double Main Event format to maximize the action.
Adding to the buzz is the introduction of a new iconic track that will challenge drivers in ways they’ve never experienced before.
The 2025 World Finals: A Championship Redefined
The centerpiece of the 2025 season is the debut of the National Series World Finals, a playoff-style event designed to crown the 2025 National Series World Champion. This groundbreaking format will feature three rounds, combining both Pro 4 and Pro 2 racing disciplines:
Round 1: Pro 4
Round 2: Pro 2
Round 3: Pro 4
The top 16 drivers in combined Pro 4 and Pro 2 points will qualify automatically, while the remaining 8 spots will be filled through nightly Last Chance Qualifiers (LCQs). With progressive eliminations, only the best of the best will make it to the final showdown.
World Finals Playoff Format
The World Finals introduces a unique elimination system:
After Round 1, the bottom 12 drivers are eliminated.
After Round 2, the bottom 6 are eliminated.
The final 6 drivers will battle in Round 3 for the championship.
Points reset for each round, ensuring every position matters:
Round 1: 48 points for 1st, 46 for 2nd, 44 for 3rd, etc.
Round 2: 24 points for 1st, 22 for 2nd, 20 for 3rd, etc.
Round 3: 12 points for 1st, 10 for 2nd, 8 for 3rd, etc.
In the event of a tie, the highest finish will determine the tiebreaker.
Qualifying for the World Finals
To compete in the World Finals:
Pro 4 drivers must have participated in at least 5 of 10 events.
Pro 2 drivers must have participated in at least 3 of 5 events.
Race winners from either series automatically qualify, provided they are in the top 16 combined points. Series champions also earn guaranteed spots.
Qualifying Series and Entry Fees
The path to the 2025 National Series starts with qualifying:
Pro 4 National Series Qualifying
Dates:
January 8: Wild West Motorsports Park
January 15: FireBird Motorsports Park
January 22: Bark River International Raceway
Entry Fee: $5
The top 24 qualifiers will advance to the Pro 4 National Series, joining the top 10 from 2024 and six provisionals.
Pro 2 National Series Qualifying
Dates: To Be Announced
Entry Fee: $5
The top 10 drivers from the 2025 Pro 4 National Series will also receive automatic invites.
Season Championship Entry Fees
Pro 4 National Series: $45
Pro 2 National Series: $35
World Finals: $20
Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
As the iRacing Short Course National Series prepares for its most ambitious season yet, the focus remains on delivering world-class racing while fostering a competitive environment for all participants. The 2025 season purse, sponsors, and full schedules will be announced soon, alongside registration details.
Nine seasons in, the National Series continues to set the standard for off-road sim racing, and 2025 is poised to be its most exciting chapter yet. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a passionate fan, this is your chance to be part of history.
Stay tuned for more updates!
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