What is the best seat position for F1 Sim Racing?

Although it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when playing, body positioning is a very important factor for improving performance in any sim racing modality.

Each type of car demands a different posture, but one of the most discussed is the posture for Formula 1 cars. Your seat position not only affects comfort but also your control over the steering wheel and pedals, and even your reaction time.

Formula-style driving requires quick reflexes and, in long races, a great deal of endurance. That’s why Formula 1 drivers invest so much time in simulators—to prepare for long sessions and improve their reactions and responsiveness. In sim racing, adopting a proper posture can also make a significant difference in terms of performance.

Leg positioning is crucial in sim racing. How you position your legs will affect your response to the pedals and, consequently, your lap times. In Formula categories, it’s essential to adopt a position where, when pressing the pedals, your knees remain slightly bent, avoiding fatigue in the legs.

The same goes for your arms. They should not be fully extended; ideally, your elbows should be bent at an angle between 90 and 120 degrees when in contact with the wheel. This will provide the best stability for driving.

One of the goals of sim racing is to replicate the sensations of real driving, maximizing immersion so that you feel like you're on the track in a real car. In Formula cars, the goal is to achieve the lowest possible center of gravity, which is why drivers sit very low—just enough to have a good view of the track and surroundings. The seatback should be slightly inclined backward, around 100 to 110 degrees, to avoid straining your shoulders and back.

It’s not absolutely necessary to mimic the exact position of Formula 1 drivers to achieve optimal performance. The most important thing is not to feel overly rigid. A well-padded seat that conforms to your body shape can be more than necessary for good performance.

If you don’t have a special seat for sim racing, there are other options that, while they may not provide as much immersion, can help maximize your performance in the game.

Ideally, you should choose a chair that allows for adjustable positioning, as your posture may change over time. A standard office chair with wheels can work, as long as it offers comfort and good lumbar support. For better stability, it’s best if the chair has wheel locks to prevent sudden movements during gameplay.

Regarding seat height, it’s recommended that your eyes be aligned with the top of the screen, or even slightly higher. As for the seatback, while a 90-degree angle may be optimal for gaming, reclining it slightly back, between 100 and 110 degrees, will allow for a more relaxed posture.

As we’ve seen, it doesn’t matter if you have a specialized sim racing seat or a more basic setup. The key is to find what’s comfortable for you through proper posture. A cockpit will help maximize realism and likely improve performance, but a standard chair with good configuration will still provide excellent ergonomics and perfect control over the car.