Competitive racing comes to Microsoft Flight Simulator this fall

Get sweaty with this new Microsoft Flight Simulator update.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

What you need to know

Microsoft has announced plans to bring competitive racing toMicrosoft Flight Simulator, with a Reno Air Races expansion slated to launch later this year. The forthcoming update represents the “first major expansion” for the title, bringing a new high-speed championship to its multiplayer offerings.

The free update takes cues from the STIHL National Championship Air Races, partnering with the Reno Air Racing Association to deliver a virtual spin on the competitive event. It’s slated to release this fall, building on the existing multiplayer offerings available through the simulator.

Reno Air Racing joins Microsoft Flight Simulator for PC and its new Xbox Series X|S version, with more details expected closer to launch. The expansion is the latest straying from the traditional Flight Simulator formula, accompanying the forthcoming Top Gun Maverick DLC, also slated for later in 2021.

Microsoft Flight Simulator is now available on Windows 10 PCs, via Steam and the Microsoft Store, plus Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S consoles.

Get the Windows Central Newsletter

All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central’s Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft’s gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter@mattjbrown.