Considering that pro race drivers were able to transition to sim racing and win, and that pro race drivers already extensively use sims for practice and testing claiming that "a simulated race car has almost nothing in common with the real experience other than your hands are turning a wheel and your feet push pedals" seems like a bit of an exaggeration, no?

I will acknowledge that Formula One (and similar like IndyCar) are on a whole other level compared to most other 4 wheeled motorsport though.