Max joins the celebration as Heineken's Player 0.0 champion is crowned
Published on 15 December 2024 by Niels Hendrix
In a thrilling display of speed, precision, and skill, Slovenian sim racer Jernej Dovžan emerged as the Player 0.0 Global Champion at the Heineken Player 0.0 Global Final. Held at the renowned GAMERGY gaming festival in Madrid, the event brought together 18 elite sim racers from around the globe, under the eye of four-time world champion Max Verstappen in a bespoke Heineken Player 0.0 arena.
The iconic Zandvoort racetrack provided the backdrop for an electrifying battle, where Jernej Dovžan from Slovenia triumphed against fierce competition, claiming the title and global recognition as the ultimate sim racing talent.
Adding to the excitement, Max Verstappen, Heineken 0.0 ambassador, took to the stage to meet fans and celebrate the finalists, highlighting the growing intersection of esports, motorsport, and responsible consumption.
Verstappen commented, “It’s incredible to see the passion and dedication of these simracers. Player 0.0 continues to showcase the importance of skill, focus, and making the right choices—not just in racing, but in life.”
Player 0.0 is a core initiative of Heineken’s When You Drive, Never Drink platform, reinforcing the message that ‘The Best Driver is the One Who Is Not Drinking’. With a mission to promote responsible consumption, the competition engages new audiences through the dynamic world of gaming.
Launched in 20 countries, this year’s Player 0.0 contest introduced a bespoke and innovative mobile game as the entry point for the competition, enabling participants from all backgrounds to join the competition. The event continues to expand Heineken's commitment to creating safer roads through engaging, impactful platforms.
“This year’s Player 0.0 Final reflects our dedication to blending innovation, responsibility, and entertainment”, said Natacha Volpini, Global Head Of Digital Consumer Innovation. “Through initiatives like this, we’re reaching new audiences and inspiring responsible choices worldwide.”
As the 2024 season concludes, Heineken looks ahead to even bigger plans for Player 0.0 in 2025, continuing to champion responsible consumption and innovative fan experiences.