Simulators
Roarington International Classic Racing Challenge 2026: First Round Decided, Two More to Go
A German driver has claimed victory in the opening round of the Roarington International Classic Racing Challenge 2026, a closely contested regularity competition inspired by the 1000 Miglia.
Round 1: The 1000 Miglia Regularity Challenge
Precision mattered more than outright speed. Participants could choose between three iconic cars eligible for the 1000 Miglia: the Lancia D24 Sport, in which Alberto Ascari won the 1954 race, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing and the Cisitalia 202. Unlike conventional racing, engine power offered no decisive advantage. Instead, drivers faced five regularity stages, aiming to cross each timing checkpoint at a prescribed target time – measured to one hundredth of a second.
Roarington’s dedicated racing program recreates the demands of a real regularity rally, including changing average speed requirements between checkpoints. Success demanded concentration, careful control of the car and a keen sense of timing.
Just Four Hundredths Apart: The First Podium
Victory went to Felix Ryschka from Germany, who completed the five stages with just 6 penalty points. Markus Bartholet from Switzerland secured second place with 8 penalty points, followed by Rok Vahtar from Germany in third with 10 penalty points.
Drivers competed from locations around the world, either on their own Roarington simulators at home or at official Partner Hubs in Kyoto, Doha, Dubai, Vaduz, Geneva, Munich and Milan. All competed under the same conditions, with their results brought together on a single international leaderboard.
The Next Two Rounds
On November 13 and 14, the competition moves to the Nürburgring Nordschleife, known as the Green Hell. Competitors will battle for the fastest lap behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz 190 E Evo II – a fitting choice, as the car made its DTM racing debut on this very circuit in 1990.
The final round, on December 11 and 12, heads into the Swiss Alps for a hill climb inspired by Bernina Gran Turismo. Driving a 1993 Alfa Romeo 155 TI V6, competitors will tackle the 6.4-kilometre mountain road from La Rösa to Ospizio Bernina, climbing more than 400 metres in altitude.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The 2026 Challenge marks the Opening Season of Roarington’s racing series, paving the way for the Roarington International Classic Racing Championship 2027. With its first round, the series has already demonstrated how sporting ambition, competitive performances and driving enjoyment can come together in a professionally organised international competition.
The 2027 race calendar will be announced soon on the Roarington website and social media channels.
