#69 - Chasing Dreams with Hugo Schwarz: From Simracing to Race in Le Mans and Nürburgring"

In the new episode we had the incredible opportunity to chat with Hugo Schwarze, a talented young driver making waves in the motorsport world! 🏎️✨ Hugo shared his inspiring journey into racing, which began at the age of 15 after a knee disease shifted his focus from field hockey to motorsport. Thanks to a thoughtful gift from his father—a sim rig—Hugo discovered his passion for racing and quickly found success in the Ginetta Junior series. 🏁 We explored the vital role of sim racing as a training tool, not just for professionals but also for aspiring drivers looking to hone their skills. Hugo emphasized how sim racing provides an accessible entry point into the world of motorsport, allowing drivers to refine their craft and stay sharp during off-seasons. 🎮💪 As we discussed his experiences in the UK racing scene, Hugo recounted his transition to the GB3 series, where he faced seasoned competitors and adapted to the challenges of open-wheel racing. He also shared his dreams of racing at iconic events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Nürburgring. 🌍🏆 Throughout our conversation, we touched on the importance of sponsorship in motorsport and how social media plays a crucial role in attracting potential sponsors. We also debated whether sim racing could serve as a viable alternative to karting for aspiring drivers. 🤔💼 In the latter part of the episode, Hugo gave us a glimpse into his sim racing setup at home, his preferences for different racing games, and the importance of maintaining a realistic driving style in simulations. 🎧🚀 We wrapped up with a fun rapid-fire segment where Hugo shared his favourite tracks, idols, and thoughts on the future of sim racing. This episode is packed with insights and inspiration, showcasing Hugo's journey and ambitions in the racing world. Don't miss it! 🎙️🔥 Podcast available: ➡️️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5BY2T7g5E5JgMERSmFqeVt ➡️️ Youtube: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCma7-U1bF2xeMw0caGVj_qA?sub_confirmation=1 ➡️️ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gearheads-the-simracing-podcast/id1669833331 About Simracing HQ ➡️️ Simracing HQ: https://simracinghq.carrd.co ➡️️ Discord: https://discord.gg/78eFHDcZ ➡️️ Join Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SImRacingHQ ➡️️ Affiliate link: https://www.raceanywhere.co.uk/?sca Follow Hugo Schwarz: 🏎️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hugo_schwarze/ 🏎️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Hugo_schwarze 🏎️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugo-schwarze-0b6806280/ Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Sim Racing 00:01:06 - Guest Introduction: Hugo Schwarz 00:02:10 - Hugo's Journey into Motorsport 00:03:37 - Transition to Ginetta Racing 00:04:57 - Adapting to GB3 Racing 00:06:15 - Future Plans and Testing 00:07:07 - Dreams of Endurance Racing 00:08:18 - Racing Heritage in Cologne 00:08:53 - Partnership with DTM 00:10:05 - Comparison of Classic and Modern DTM 00:11:40 - The Appeal of BTCC 00:12:01 - Sim Racing as a Training Tool 00:13:06 - iZone's Role in Development 00:14:26 - Mental Challenges in Sim Racing 00:16:46 - Sponsorship and Support for Racing 00:17:39 - Social Media and Sponsorship 00:19:13 - Sim Racing Equipment and Asher 00:20:12 - Sim Racing Games: iRacing vs. Assetto Corsa 00:24:10 - The Future of Sim Racing in Motorsports 00:28:14 - Sim Rig Setup at Home 00:31:33 - Impact of Sim Racing on Life 00:32:45 - Starting with Gran Turismo 00:33:06 - Support for Female Drivers in Racing 00:35:52 - Quickfire Questions 00:37:38 - Conclusion and Thanks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.