It is expected that current and former Formula One drivers will once again participate, as well as celebrities such as sportspeople, musicians and actors.

Last year, over 30 million people watched the Virtual Grand Prix series in its inaugural season over eight live events.

It was seen as a substitute for the suspended Formula One season, which was heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Usually starting in March, the 2020 season did not start until July under strict coronavirus protocols, with the gap in between being dedicated to esports.

Britain's George Russell, Monaco's Charles Leclerc and Thai-British driver Alexander Albon were some of the staple drivers of the series, while Britain's Lando Norris was also present for a number of races.

Of the 20 drivers on the 2020 grid, 11 took part in the series, while a number of Formula Two and Three drivers were part of the races too.

Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Argentinian striker Sergio Aguero were among a number of footballers who took to the track last year.

Formula One launched the series following the rise in Twitch streaming from drivers like Leclerc and Albon due to the suspension of the season.

The 2021 Virtual Grand Prix season is set to return on January 31 for three consecutive race weekends, with a new format.

Professional gamers will take part in a five-lap sprint race to determine a grid order for the feature race, which will include celebrities and will be ran at 50 per cent race distance - with points then being awarded in the overall standings.

The team standings will also determine how the prize fund is distributed to the team's charities of choice.

The 2021 Formula One Grand Prix season is set to start in Bahrain on March 28.

The F1 Esports Series, a competition for gamers rather than drivers, is also set to continue in 2021, with the Challenger Series running until April, followed by the return of the F1 Esports Series Pro Championship later in the year.