A strong sim racer across many titles, Ebrahim Almubarak won his place in the competition at the Middle Eastern qualifiers.

16 talented esports hopefuls went up against one another in a live event in front of a large enthusiastic audience, and after a grueling calendar of timed qualifiers, quarter finals, semi-finals and a grand final, Ebrahim was victorious.

The Bahraini resident aims to showcase the strength of the sim-racing community in the region at the Shadow final in the UK.

As we quickly approach the McLaren Shadow grand finals, we get to know one more of our seven finalists.

What’s your favourite type of car to race online?

I liked the super GT cars as they're fast and have good grip, which I enjoy driving especially at Nürburgring.

What’s your favourite racing game?

I have grown up with Gran Turismo, because it feels like a real driving simulator and that got me focused on this game.

Favourite non-racing game?

Other than racing I have always been into FPS (first person shooter) multiplayer competitive games, such as Overwatch.

Favourite (real-life) racing driver?

I didn’t watch races before, but on social media in recent years I have been hearing a lot about Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel.

Favourite (real-life) race track?

Nürburgring.

What does McLaren mean to you?

McLaren have always been unique with their designs, and I love driving the Automotive road cars in games too.

What gave you the edge to make it through?

Never giving up.

Any tips for healthy, fun gaming?

Always try to challenge yourself and others, which makes it so much more fun.

What does gaming mean to you?

Gaming is a way to express myself, and do the things that I am not capable of doing in real life.

When you’re not working/gaming, what are you doing?

Karting.

How are you going to prepare for the McLaren Shadow Grand Finals?

Practice every day with different types of cars, tracks and settings.

Who do you see as your biggest competiton?

Igor Fraga has won the first FIA esport competition and now he has also qualified for the Shadow grand-final, which makes him a good competitor.

The world's biggest esports racing competition will feature four days of intense tests and race offs, with two of the days streamed via our YouTube channel on Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 January 2019.