Formula 1 eSports title wide open after three rounds
View(s):The third leg of Sri Lanka’s first-ever esport Formula 1 championship ended on Wednesday with Akash De Mello taking the checked flag, as the race to the top spot opens up of with five more rounds to go.
It is perhaps hard to imagine an e-race where viewers were forced to the edge of their seats, but that is exactly what happened on Wednesday (8) as the local boys took on Italy’s Mugello Circuit at what is Sri Lanka’s first ever Formula 1 Championship — courtesy of Mandarin Reid eSports and SRL.
Right from the beginning there was mayhem on the track as a number of drivers were taken out at the first bend. Majority of favorites though managed to escape with Fawzul Aleem, who won the first of eight-leg championship taking an early lead, but was closely followed by Akash.
So fierce was the battle it was a matter of time before Fawzul would falter and give the lead position to Akash. Viewers were given a skilled display of blocking and pressure building maneuvers.
But even Akash’s time at the lead was short-lived as challengers continued to press for position. The entire field was pushed to challenge causing many to lose control at the top and relinquish their position.
In an ever changing race of fortune and skill, spectators were left enthralled. Ultimately it was Akash who skillfully reigned winner clocking 39:11.00. Chalitha Dilhara followed in 00:24.851 seconds behind the leader, while Rashitha Aluthge was close, further behind by 00:25.391 seconds.
Aleem had to complete at fourth, followed respectively by Brian, Savindya Fernando, Damith Gihan, Shehan Madushanka, Andre Sean and Shan Ibrahim.
After the third round, the leaderboard for the entire championship has been thrown wide open with three different winners produced. The championship is certainly heating up and is anyone’s game. This is a great win for eSports and particularly for Sri Lanka’s future in Formula 1.
Last Saturday’s tournament at SPA had it all for the avid race lover. From a massive collision upfront involving several cars, to the skillful maneuvering through the rubble, to breath taking over takes and ever changing fortunes – the race was action packed and filled with many breathtaking moments.
Upon completion of the Silverstone leg on Saturday, the championship will continue with Monza (15), Red Bull Ring (18), Barcelona (22) and Imola (25) with the first-ever champion to be announced by September 26.
The championship is supported by Allianz Insurance Lanka, Asian Security Group International, Ayuwanna by Barberyn, Chinese Dragon Café, General Auto Works, GamesHome, Kärcher Tudawe, Mobil 1, Ryesight, Seylan Bank, Stanvo, Daily Mirror and Lankadeepa, Yes FM and Kiki App.