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Are Nascar Drivers Getting Paid for Iracing

Confused about whether NASCAR pros get paid to race on iRacing? This calm, beginner-friendly guide explains how iRacing works and what it means for your own start.

If you’ve heard big names jump into online races and wondered, “are nascar drivers getting paid for iracing?” you’re not alone. It’s easy to assume the pros make money every time they log in. Let’s clear that up so you can focus on your own path without confusion.

Quick Answer: are nascar drivers getting paid for iracing?

Generally, no—NASCAR drivers aren’t paid by iRacing to run standard official races. Pros may earn money through sponsors, teams, TV promotions, or special events, but iRacing itself doesn’t pay Cup drivers to just show up. Prize pools mainly apply to esports series like the eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series (for sim racers).

Why This Matters for Beginners

  • The confusion: During high-profile broadcasts (like the 2020 Pro Invitational), it looked like drivers were “on the job.” In reality, payment—when it occurs—usually comes from TV networks, sponsors, or teams, not iRacing’s regular race system.
  • The takeaway for iRacing beginners: Understanding how iRacing works helps set the right expectations. iRacing is a subscription-based sim. You pay for content, develop your license and iRating, and compete. Money isn’t the goal for most; skill-building, clean racing, and fun are.
  • Your benefit: Once you stop worrying about pro paychecks, you can invest your energy into learning tracks, car control, and racecraft.

Simple Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Learn how iRacing works: Start with Rookie content and complete Time Trials and Practice to build confidence before official races.
  2. Set your goals: Focus on Safety Rating first (drive clean, finish races), then pace.
  3. Pick one car/track combo: Repeat it for a week. Consistency beats variety for new to iRacing drivers.
  4. Watch and copy: Study top splits or pro streams for lines and braking points—apply one change at a time.
  5. Review replays: After each race, mark two corners to improve next session.

Quick Pro Tips

  • Brake earlier than you think; exit speed wins laps and keeps incidents low.
  • Use ghost cars in Time Attack or test sessions to learn without pressure.
  • Calibrate your wheel and pedals carefully—small setup issues create big mistakes.
  • Note-taking works: Track temps, gear choice, brake markers. You’ll progress faster.
  • Limit setup tinkering at first; run baseline and focus on driving technique.

When to Ask for Help

If you’re stuck—spinning in the same corner or confused about setups—reach out. Many friendly iRacing Discord communities share beginner setups, track notes, and hosted practice lobbies. A 10-minute chat can save hours of frustration.

FAQs

  • Do pros ever get paid to race on iRacing?
    Sometimes, but not by iRacing for normal events. Payment can come from sponsors, teams, or broadcast/appearance deals during special promotions.

  • Is there prize money in iRacing?
    Yes, mostly in organized esports like the eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series for sim racers. Regular official races you join as a member don’t pay out.

  • Can I make money as a new to iRacing driver?
    Realistically, no—not at the start. Focus on clean driving, licenses, and pace. Some advanced sim racers earn via leagues, sponsorships, or streaming later.

  • What’s the best path for iRacing beginners?
    Keep it simple: one car, one track, clean laps. Build Safety Rating, then speed. Use replays, coaching videos, and small, steady goals.

Final Takeaways

Don’t worry about “are nascar drivers getting paid for iracing”—for your journey, it doesn’t change the roadmap. Your next step: pick one combo, run 20 clean practice laps, and review your replay to fix two corners. That steady habit is how you climb.