The first-ever AEL Virtual Grand Prix (VGP) Victorian Students Competition has crowned its champions, capping off an electrifying race activation at the Melbourne Grand Prix Innovation Hub that drew thousands of student spectators across the day.
The AEL race stop was a hive of activity, with students lining up to take to the virtual track, test their racing skills and experience esports competition in a world‑class motorsport environment. The enthusiasm on display reflected growing student interest in esports and sim racing pathways, particularly as Australia looks toward the future of motorsport and digital competition.
After a tightly contested series of races, three students emerged as podium finishers in the inaugural Victorian edition of the Virtual Grand Prix:
- 🥇 Julien, St Francis Catholic College, Melton
- 🥈 Corbin, Vermont Secondary College
- 🥉 Anton, Buckley Park Secondary College
Each finalist demonstrated impressive racecraft, composure under pressure and technical skill, The event formed a key milestone in the broader launch of the AEL Virtual Grand Prix for Victorian schools, which was announced earlier this year as a new competitive platform designed to engage students through esports, STEM-aligned learning, and career pathways connected to motorsport, technology and digital industries.
The Melbourne activation gave students hands-on access to professional-grade racing setups while showcasing how esports can connect education, competition and industry at a large-scale public event.
AEL also acknowledged the support of Xbox Game Pass, with EA Play’s F1 25 available on the day through a Game Pass Ultimate subscription, allowing students to experience the latest Formula 1 title in a competitive, live setting.
The success of the event was made possible through collaboration with AEL’s partners, including AGON by AOC, Indomie Australia, HyperX, and Officeworks, whose contributions helped deliver a high-quality, inclusive experience for visiting students.
Looking ahead, AEL confirmed that the Virtual Grand Prix is just getting started. The organisation plans to continue delivering the competition term-by-term, expanding opportunities for students across Victoria while building momentum toward the 2027 Melbourne Grand Prix.
“Going forward, AEL is building something special,” an AEL spokesperson said. “The Virtual Grand Prix will continue to grow, giving students more chances to compete, connect and explore future pathways through esports and motorsport.”
With strong student participation, enthusiastic crowds and a showcase podium finish, the inaugural AEL Virtual Grand Prix has laid the foundation for a flagship student competition that blends education, esports and world-class racing culture.
To find out more about the AEL Virtual Grand Prix visit ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix
