Bathurst 12 Hour organisers have moved the event’s date for a second time after announcing the international GT event will take place in May.
Originally scheduled to take place on February 25-27, it was decided between the race’s stakeholders including Supercars, Destination NSW, Bathurst Regional Council, ARG, Motorsport Australia and SRO Motorsports Group to delay the event.
Regulations regarding COVID and quarantine for international competitors plus the close proximity of the Kyalami 9 Hour, the opening round of the Intercontinental GT Challenge has pushed back the race to May 12-13.
It is expected many international entries will enter the event on the new date, with Supercars Chief Operating Officer Shane Howard believes it is a more attractive date given the current travel scenario.
“This is the best outcome for the event under the current circumstances,” Howard said.
“This new date alleviates pressure on international competitors and freight operators as well as Marshals, Officials and Volunteers who play a critical role in the success of the event every year.
“We have worked closely with Destination NSW, SRO Motorsports Group, Bathurst Regional Council, Motorsport Australia, ARG and our broadcasters to ensure this date will ensure the best outcomes for all involved and the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour.
“As we’ve seen, a number of high-profile teams have already committed to attending and we look forward to seeing more international competitors announce their inclusion leading into May’s new date.
“This is a win for fans who have been keen to see this event return to the Australian motorsport calendar for the last two years.”
SRO Motorsports Group Founder and CEO Stephane Ratel highlighted the importance of the Bathurst 12 Hour to the Intercontinental GT Challenge calendar.
“It was imperative that Intercontinental GT Challenge Powered by Pirelli returned to Bathurst this year, and the new May date ensures the race can go ahead without any lingering Omicron restrictions,” he explained.
“I applaud Supercars’ commitment to finding an alternative weekend during their busy domestic schedule and their efforts in general to stage the race.
“The Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia Powered by AWS calendar will also be rejigged to accommodate Bathurst’s change, which helps us to maintain a strong national presence.
“I am sure that some of these local entries will also receive IGTC nominations – a cornerstone of the championship’s original philosophy.”
Not held since 2020, the Bathurst 12 Hour provided one last final dream victory for Bentley before its longstanding GT3 program partnering with M-Sport came to an end.