Do I need a clutch pedal for Formula racing?

If you're setting up a sim racing rig and focusing on Formula racing, you may be wondering: Do I need a clutch pedal? In real-life Formula 1 cars, gear shifting works very differently from most road cars. Instead of a traditional clutch pedal, Formula 1 cars rely on paddle shifters, which allow for quick, smooth gear changes without the need for a clutch during racing.

Formula racing is all about precision and quick reactions, and the technology in modern Formula 1 cars supports this. These cars feature semi-automatic transmissions that are directly controlled by the paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

During the race, drivers never use a traditional clutch pedal to shift gears, the clutch of an F1 is extremely small (about 1/3 of the size of an ordinary car) and it is designed to be used rarely. The clutch lever, located on the wheel, is only used for starting the car at the green signal or during restarts from the pit stop, not during racing. If you want to pursuit the best simulation, we have the Podium Advanced Paddle Module to perfectly simulate modern Formula 1.

Most sim racing platforms, such as F1 202x, iRacing, and Assetto Corsa Competizione, are designed to closely mirror the mechanics of real Formula racing. This means that as a sim racer, you can make fast, accurate shifts using only the paddle shifters on your wheel, just as you would in a real Formula car—without the need for a clutch pedal.

At Fanatec, we design products with the specific needs of Formula sim racers in mind. Our CSL Pedals provide an excellent two-pedal throttle-brake setup, ideal for Formula-style racing. If you are looking for an higher-end solution, the CSL Elite Pedals V2, if desired, you can easily remove the third pedal from this pedal kit, i.e. the clutch and you have a LoadCell controlled brake pedal to find your Perfect braking style. If you're looking for a more advanced setup, the ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula V2.5 is another perfect choice, complete with highly responsive paddle shifters that replicate the Formula 1 shifting experience. These paddles offer a precise, tactile feel, helping you stay focused and maintain control during intense racing sessions.

In short, a clutch pedal is not necessary for Formula racing in its purest form. The CSL Pedals or CSL Elite Pedals V2 (removing the clutch pedal) and ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula V2.5 provide the ideal setup for an authentic Formula driving experience. However, if you're interested in exploring other racing styles that require a clutch, our systems offer expandability to suit your needs as you progress in your sim racing journey.

If you wish to find your perfect sim setup or you need product consultation, Fanatec experts’ team is glad to help you! Just fill in this product consultation form.