Fanatec has just dropped some big news at the SimRacing Expo 2025, introducing two long-awaited products that are already generating a lot of noise in the sim racing community: the all-new Podium DD and the Podium Pedals.
The New Flagship: Podium DD
Replacing the well-known Podium Wheel Base DD2, the Podium DD takes over as Fanatec’s new flagship direct drive system. It builds on the ClubSport DD and ClubSport DD+ platforms, delivering a massive 25 Nm of consistent holding torque with a 33 Nm peak overshoot. Fanatec says this base offers the widest dynamic range of any they’ve ever made.
The unit features all-aluminum internals for strength and precision, improved thermal management, and reinforced electronics for better stability during long sessions. It also includes FullForce technology, which enhances fine vibration details and fuses them with the force feedback signal to create a more immersive driving feel.
A 10 cm shaft extension is included in the box, giving racers more flexibility when setting up their rig and monitor placement. Like previous models, it remains compatible with all Fanatec wheels using the QR2 system.
However, Fanatec has confirmed that the Podium DD will be compatible only with PC, or Xbox when used with an Xbox-licensed steering wheel. PlayStation compatibility will not be available.
Podium DD Highlights:
• Release: Q1 2026
• 25 Nm consistent torque, 33 Nm peak overshoot
• Optimized thermal design with all-metal structure
• Custom-designed servo motor built in Germany
• FluxBarrier technology for smoother feedback
• FullForce for ultra-detailed force feedback
• Aluminum internals and casing for durability and heat dissipation
• Included shaft extension for setup flexibility
The All-New Podium Pedals
Also coming in Q1 2026 are the Podium Pedals, Fanatec’s most advanced pedal set yet. Developed in Germany with input from professional drivers like Igor Fraga, these pedals are built for precision, durability, and adjustability.
The standout feature is the forged aluminum brake pedal, an industry first, paired with a >200 kg load cell. Fanatec has implemented a patented elastomer compression control system, claiming that their components never overstress even under heavy braking. This system should deliver a consistent and realistic pedal feel across the full range of motion.
Every pedal adjustment, including travel and resistance, can be made tool-free, and users can fine-tune pedal curves through the Fanatec App, with settings saved directly to the internal memory so custom curves also work on consoles.
A Formula variant will also be available, featuring carbon fiber pedal plates and heel rests, along with optional grip tape for that authentic F1-style feel.
Podium Pedals Highlights:
• Release: Q1 2026
• Developed with professional driver feedback
• Forged aluminum brake pedal with >200 kg load cell
• Patented elastomer compression system for consistent performance
• Tool-free adjustments on all axes
• Adjustable pedal curves and dead zones via Fanatec App
• Formula edition with carbon fiber components and optional grip tape
• Industrial-grade ball bearings for smooth operation
• Compatible with Fanatec’s mounting plate and heel rest accessories
Mounting and Connectivity
Both the standard and Formula versions include a compact control box that supports RJ12 and USB Type-C connections simultaneously. The design also includes haptic mounts for future expansion, and the mounting system supports a wide range of angles, including inverted setups. With both the Podium DD and Podium Pedals launching in Q1 2026, Fanatec seems ready to set a new standard for high-end sim racing hardware.
Stay tuned for more updates as Fanatec releases pricing and pre-order information closer to launch. Let us know what you think.
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