Mostly because of the way online racers behave and speak to each other and it has become worse over the years. The ranting, swearing (iRanting) and sometimes threats (consoles!) that some online racers seem to think is the way to behave. I don't want to use my game playing/racing time to end the session with negative feelings. When 90% of the time there is absolutely nothing at stake I find the behaviour hard to understand.
In all my years on real tracks, I've never experienced anything like that and the stewards or event organisers are quick to intervene if anything does occur, I've seen plenty of drivers removed and banned for poor driving standards. In the real world, I don't think the same people would be as brave with their insults.
I have raced online competitively in the past, some esports, even won a few endurance events, and equally have been at the back against some of the incredibly talented racers out there. I'm more interested in a good race than where I finish.
The few RD races I have taken part in have been well organised but...all that faffing about with the different apps needed to talk to people etc is another barrier. Technical issues in many games often another factor but too many to list here. Then there is the issue of downloading mods, it can all get very time-consuming.
For online racing to be really successful it needs a few things:
- A commitment to decent behaviour and driving standards. Even at our local go-kart and club events, no one gets on track without the safety briefing and driving standards chat.
- If it's in any way competitive, real human marshalls to observe driving standards and steward/organiser whose decision is final. Any complaints only to them, not other drivers/players!
- The simplest possible way to get everyone into the race and talking to each other (pre/post-race, not during!).