[Thread moving to Off-Topic]
The V1 format is changing significantly, with emphasis on a more test/challenge-based system being introduced. It is intended that there will be a shorter period of sim-based trialling, moving to real-world testing earlier in the selection process. The exact lengths of these phases isn't known *to me* yet, and I don't want to talk outside my area of expertise. Suffice it to say that we learned a huge amount about the process we need to employ in order to float talent to the top in the past (positive and negative experiences), and we're using that experience in the new format.
A significant point which you need to know is that V1 this time around will not be free-to-race. You guys know that we wanted to make this happen without costing participants a penny, and you know that we worked long and hard to make it a reality in that form. Unfortunately the reality is that, with the best will in the world, we could not make that model work. Having said this, the intention is that we *will* be offering a free demo of one track and one car for promotional purposes.
Also, a heads up: We will hopefully be in a position to invite beta testers for the sim, some time in (early?) July. I've indicated to Jay that I would like to invite LFSers into that process. The sim, in case you haven't figured it out by now, is not LFS this time around.