Fanatec Drops Major Update

Fanatec has just lifted the curtain on a wave of announcements that's set to shake up the sim racing space. From a brand new Formula wheel to a long-awaited Wheel Hub, official pricing on the Podium Pedals, and free performance upgrades for existing direct drive bases, there's a lot to unpack. Let's break it all down.

ClubSport Formula V3, A Proper Upgrade Over the V2.5

The headline release is the ClubSport Formula V3, a redesigned Formula-style wheel that replaces the long-standing V2.5. Priced at €349.95, it brings a fresh wave of improvements aimed at both Formula racers and GT drivers who love the format.

What's new:

- A larger display with Intelligent Telemetry Mode for clearer in-race info

- A 290 mm diameter for better ergonomics and feel

- Improved rotary inputs that should fix the over-sensitive thumb rotaries from the V2.5

- Dual FunkySwitch controls for more inputs at your fingertips

- And one of the most requested features, user-replaceable grips

It's a meaningful step forward, especially for those who've been holding onto the V2.5 waiting for a proper successor.

Fanatec Wheel Hub, Open Up Your Setup

Next up is the Fanatec Wheel Hub, a new adapter built specifically for third-party USB steering wheels. Priced at €99.95, it brings a compact form factor and QR2 compatibility to the table, along with broad mounting support for both 6 x 70 mm and 6 x 50.8 mm patterns.

This is a big deal for anyone running custom or third-party wheels who wants to take advantage of the Fanatec ecosystem without sacrificing flexibility. On top of that, the standard QR2 Wheel-Side is now permanently cheaper, which is a welcome change for anyone expanding their setup.

Podium Pedals, Pricing and Release Window Confirmed

Fanatec has officially confirmed pricing for their flagship Podium Pedals. Both the three-pedal version and the two-pedal Formula version will retail at €699.95. Shipping is expected to begin in July. These have been hyped for a long time, and with the price now official, customers can start planning their upgrade paths.

Free Performance Boosts for Existing DD Bases

This one's huge for current owners. A new Fanatec App update rolling out next week will significantly increase holding torque on existing direct drive bases, completely free of charge.

Here's the breakdown:

- ClubSport DD: from 12 Nm to 15 Nm holding torque

- ClubSport DD+: from 15 Nm to 18 Nm holding torque (this also applies to the ClubSport Racing Wheel F1 and Gran Turismo DD Extreme bundles, both becoming 18 Nm products)

On top of that, Fanatec has confirmed plans to add FullForce support to the CSL DD and Gran Turismo DD Pro in a future update. Again, free of charge. This is the kind of post-purchase support that genuinely sets a brand apart.

Final Thoughts

This is a stacked announcement. Between the new Formula V3, the Wheel Hub opening doors for third-party setups, confirmed Podium Pedals pricing, and free performance upgrades for existing DD owners, Fanatec is clearly making a move to strengthen their position across every tier of the market.