De Angelis, Barrichello confirmed in Heart of Racing Mercedes-AMG

The Heart of Racing Team will make its third Meguiar's Bathurst 12 Hour start February 13-15 with Ian James, Roman De Angelis, and team newcomer Eduardo “Dudu” Barrichello piloting the No. 27 Heart of Racing AMG in the Bronze category.

The Heart of Racing’s first start at Mount Panorama was in 2024, where the team finished second in the Pro-Am category with James, Alex Riberas, and Ross Gunn. The lineup changed slightly in 2025 when the team switched to the Bronze category, where James and Gunn were joined by Zacharie Robichon, going on to secure a class victory.

While James will be making his third start at Mount Panorama, De Angelis will be making his second Bathurst 12 Hour start after finishing second in the Silver class in 2020 on board an Aston Martin Vantage.

“It’s great to be returning to Bathurst after 6 years away from the event,” said De Angelis.

“I’ve hoped to get the chance to race here again every year since, as it’s one of the best events and tracks in the world, in my opinion. I’m super grateful to get the chance to be back with The Heart of Racing. I think teaming up with Dudu and Ian will hopefully yield a strong result in the Bronze class.”

Barrichello is making his Mount Panorama debut at the 2026 outing. The Brazilian is coming off a podium finish at the Rolex 24 At Daytona in his first start with the team.

“I’m super happy to have the opportunity to be at Bathurst this year,” said Barrichello.

“It’s even better to be with such a great lineup, and also great friends. I've always wanted to have a go at it, and I'm super thankful to finally be able to. I’ve never been to Australia either, so that'll be just as cool! Can't wait to share the car for the first time with both Roman and Ian!”

The James, De Angelis, Barrichello trio will take the green flag on Sunday, February 15th at 5:45am local time (AEDT).