Mercedes-Benz and Sony Computer Entertainment are looking to rewrite the history books. For the ultimate virtual v. reality race, millions of viewers will be able to watch the action online while Gran Turismo®5 fans will have the chance to compete against Formula 1™ ace - David Coulthard and the clock, in what could end up being the largest race ever recorded.

At 15:20 (BST) on the afternoon of Monday 5 September 2011, David Coulthard will take the wheel of a real 6.3 litre V8 powered Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. His opponents will be GT5™ fans from around the globe, who will simultaneously pit their wits against the world-class professional driver, driving the same car through a specially created in-game ‘seasonal event’ - the Mercedes-Benz Driving Event. To add to the drama the world famous track located in Europe which will be the race location is to remain a secret until race day to give all competitors a fair chance at victory.

Meanwhile, at Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands, England, 24 prize draw winners will be battling to qualify for their place in the big race on the renowned racing game for PlayStation®3. Those who set the top six qualifying times will compete against Coulthard in real time at the flagship venue where visitors are welcome to come and watch the action for themselves. The contestant from Mercedes-Benz World that sets the fastest lap will win an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2011 Brazilian Formula 1™ Grand Prix on 27 November.

Action footage of David Coulthard driving the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, combined with footage from his real time PlayStation opponents at Mercedes-Benz World, can be viewed live online with live pre-race coverage from Formula 1™ commentator Martin Brundle. Live coverage on race day will begin at 3pm (BST).

Leaderboard information for virtual racers brave enough to take on David Coulthard via the Mercedes-Benz Driving Event will be available soon on www.gran-turismo.com. With over 5.5 million copies of the game having been sold worldwide in its first two weeks on sale, the live event hopes to become the world’s biggest ever race.