Dallara and AK Informatica have announced the launch of DALLARA-AK ESPORTS, an innovative joint venture aimed at revolutionizing the world of sim racing and Esports. The newly formed company will be based in Indianapolis, leveraging the city’s long-held recognition as the motorsports capital of the world. With an aim to make Indianapolis a sim racing destination as well, DALLARA-AK ESPORTS will benefit from the support of local partners and experts and aim to become a global leader in the development of advanced sim racing technologies.
This joint effort will merge the expertise of AK Esports, the Esports division of AK Informatica, with Dallara’s long-standing expertise in real motorsport and race car development and production. AK Esports, a pioneer in the field of sim racing for many years, has created significant assets, organized championships for well-known automotive brands, and managed world-renowned events, establishing itself as a leader in the field.
“This joint venture is a significant step forward in merging the virtual world of sim racing with the exciting reality of motorsport. With DALLARA-AK ESPORTS, we are ready to explore new technological frontiers, elevating the sim racing experience to unprecedented levels,” said Alessio Cicolari, CEO of DALLARA-AK ESPORTS. “Our shared vision for Indianapolis as a global hub for Esports and sim racing is now a reality. We’re confident this partnership will increase workforce within academia, tech, and event hospitality in the state of Indiana.”
“For more than 50 years, the Dallara brand has been synonymous with motor racing, continually manufacturing racing cars at the sport’s highest level and constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. We are thrilled to continue this journey by partnering with AK Informatica to blend the virtual world of sim racing with the thrilling reality of motorsport,” said Andrea Pontremoli, CEO of Dallara. “Through DALLARA-AK ESPORTS, we are poised to venture into new technological territories, taking the sim racing experience to unparalleled heights.”
DALLARA-AK ESPORTS will hold their first activation during the NBA All-Star 2024 Crossover, February 16-18, at the Indiana Convention Center, bringing the heart of racing to NBA All-Star 2024. This collaborative activation puts fans in the driver seat to experience Kunos Simulazioni’s Assetto Corsa Competizione racing simulator – one of the most precise simulators dedicated to professional racing drivers and engineers. Attendees will compete in the GT car of their choice to reach the top of the leaderboard on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course.
“Once again, Indiana is attracting yet another innovator to our vibrant sports tech ecosystem,” said Jeffrey Hintz, Executive Director of Sports Tech HQ. “By leveraging Indiana’s robust reputation as one of the best sports destinations in the world, DALLARA-AK ESPORTS will have access to a collaborative network of sports leaders, academia, talent pipelines and a strong tech base. We are thrilled to welcome DALLARA-AK ESPORTS to the growing list of tech innovators that call Indiana home.”
A multi-day interactive fan event, the NBA All-Star 2024 Crossover brings basketball culture to the forefront, featuring player appearances, live performances and unique activations focused on art, music, fashion, technology and entertainment. This ticketed event is open to all Crossover fans and will be located near the G League Court. Ticket cost and event information can be found on their website.
About Dallara
Established as the official sole chassis supplier of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2012, Dallara USA swiftly expanded its operations by establishing an engineering center in Speedway, Indiana, located in close proximity to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Since its inception, the US headquarters of Dallara has emerged as a pivotal hub for motorsport innovation and excellence. Dallara USA’s motorsport endeavors have flourished over the years, with notable achievements including its role as the exclusive chassis supplier for the Indy NXT Series. Not limited to motorsport, Dallara has expanded its reach into the United States aerospace and defense industries, diversifying its portfolio and contributing to technological advancements in various sectors.
About AK Esports
AK Esports is Italy’s premier company specializing in the organization and management of top-tier Esports competitions worldwide. Originally established in 2004 as an IT company, AK quickly emerged as a prominent player in the hardware sector, solidifying its reputation for excellence. AK has continued to achieve remarkable success, securing international recognition through strategic partnerships with industry giants such as SRO Motorsports Group, Dallara, and various automotive brands. With a proven track record of delivering exceptional events and fostering meaningful partnerships, AK is committed to driving the Esports industry forward.
About Sports Tech HQ
Sports Tech HQ is a non-profit organization based in Indiana, dedicated to cultivating, growing, and accelerating the sports tech ecosystem. By investing in innovation and fostering collaboration, Sports Tech HQ supports companies through every stage of development, from the first pitch to the final exit.