VIDEO: F1 Esports series matches world championship

A British reigning champion driving for Mercedes, picking up brilliant wins on his way to defending his title – sounds familiar doesn't it? The more things change, the more they stay the same, with Formula 1's Esports Pro Series matching the world championship after the opening rounds on Wednesday.

Brendon Leigh, winner of the inaugural Esports series in 2017 returned in style on Wednesday, winning the opening two races – including a fine fightback from fifth on the grid in China, featuring an overtake for the win on Mercedes team-mate Daniel Bereznay.

Leigh ended the day top of the standings, but was denied a clean sweep of race wins by Toro Rosso's Frederik Rasmussen with a thrilling finish at the line in Baku.

Check out the highlights and the full night's action below.

It's another win for @BrendonLeigh72 as he extends his lead at the top of the Pro Series standings ????

He had to get past his Mercedes teammate first, before securing the points ????#F1Esports #F1 @newbalance pic.twitter.com/13b0FDxInc — Formula 1 (@F1) October 10, 2018

Finishes don't come much closer than this! ????????????

Mercedes' Brendon Leigh is inches away from making it 3 wins out of 3, but is beaten on the line by @ToroRosso's Frederik Rasmussen#F1Esports @newbalance pic.twitter.com/EBEFUrJUph — Formula 1 (@F1) October 10, 2018

DRIVER STANDINGS: AFTER THREE RACES ????

A commanding lead for Brendon Leigh after three rounds of the F1 New Balance Pro Series 2018

But it could have been even better for the Mercedes driver, who was pipped to victory in race three by Frederik Rasmussen #F1Esports #F1 pic.twitter.com/okTHaZpeGA — Formula 1 (@F1) October 10, 2018