Grand Prix

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

The Australian Esports League (AEL) and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation have partnered to create the ultimate motorsport experience for Victorian students: the AEL Virtual Grand Prix.

Powered by Xbox Game Pass, this premier tournament invites students from across the state to compete for racing glory. We are combining the thrill of the Grand Prix™ event with a structured esports competition, offering a unique blend of digital motorsport and real-world excitement.

Top qualifiers will earn a spot in the Champions Pool, representing their school and attending the Grand Prix™ on Thursday, March 5th to compete in the Grand Finals live from the Innovation Hub. This is the “Start Line” for the next generation of motorsport and gaming fans.

How to Register Registration is now open. Students and teachers can visit the official portal to view the full rule set, qualifier dates, and registration instructions. Secure your spot on the grid today at: www.ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix

From the Classroom to the Circuit The tournament is open to all students aged 10-18 currently enrolled in a Victorian school, providing an accessible pathway into competitive esports. Aspiring drivers have two ways to earn their grid position:

• Secondary Division (Ages 13-18 / Years 7-12): Competitors will race in Online Qualifiers over the weekend of February 28 – March 1. Students can play from home or school on their own hardware (F1® 24 on PC or Xbox) with a stable internet connection. The Top 12 Drivers will qualify for the live finals.
• Primary Division (Ages 10-12): A dedicated Junior Qualifier will be hosted in-person at Kingsville Primary on Saturday, February 28. Students will compete on AEL-provided Xbox consoles and controllers. The Top 4 Drivers will qualify for the live finals. (Note: A parent or guardian must remain on-site for supervision).

Each student who qualifies for the Champions Pool will earn a ticket for themselves and one parent to attend the live finals.

Race Where the Pros Race The grand final isn’t played in a classroom or from home. It is played metres from the track at the FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2026.

• The Venue: The Innovation Hub presented by Engineers Australia is the epicentre of future technology at Albert Park. It is a dedicated showcase where the brightest minds in motorsport, defence, aviation, and STEM come together.
• The Atmosphere: Finalists won’t just be competing; they will be immersed in the electric energy of the Grand Prix™. Experience the roar of the engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the cutting-edge tech of the paddock. This is the ultimate excursion for any motorsport fan.

A Pathway for Future Talent “This competition is about more than just fast laps; it’s about giving students a platform to showcase their talent on a national stage,” says Darren Kwan, Director of the Australian Esports League. “Thanks to Xbox Game Pass and the realism of modern racing simulators, we are bridging the gap between gaming and professional motorsport, giving students a taste of the pressure and excitement of the Grand Prix™ paddock.”

About the Australian Esports League (AEL): The AEL is a leading provider of esports tournaments and gaming events in Australia, dedicated to building the grassroots ecosystem and providing structured competitions for schools, universities, and community groups.