How the Repco Bathurst 12 Hour is building – on and off track
23 Jan
‘Dawn to Dusk entertainment’ on and off the track is the byword for the Repco Bathurst 12 Hour as the countdown continues to the 2024 running of Australia’s International Enduro.
Confirmation of the debut of Ford’s iconic SuperVan, set to perform demonstrations across the Friday and Saturday of the event this year, and the full event schedule points the way towards another exciting weekend on the Mountain this year.
More on and off-track activations are yet to be confirmed by event organisers in the lead-up to the 2024 event, while the event remains one of the most accessible on the calendar for fans.
Paddock access remains free for all ticketholders at the event, while a new and improved rooftop bar area will be in place this year – with details to be announced soon.
However, it is the Ford SuperVan that represents a significant addition to the event program.
“We can’t emphasize enough how big the commitment from Ford has been,” Rudzis said.
“It’s a massive logistical exercise to bring the car, the driver and the whole setup to Australia for the Repco Bathurst 12 Hour and the full Bathurst SuperFest. They’re very engaged with what we’re doing with the event and how it’s building to embrace all forms of motoring and motorsport.
“Ford are building towards the introduction of the Mustang GT3 to Australian soil in 2025, along with their existing involvement in the Repco Supercars Championship, so this is an extension of that involvement and investment.
“That thing is going to be spectacular. It will change a lot of people’s opinions on what EV vehicles are capable of and how exciting to watch they can be.”
The addition of SuperVan 4.2 picks up from where the Red Bull Formula 1 car – and young Kiwi star Liam Lawson – left off in 2023.
The Formula 1 demonstration thrilled fans at the circuit last year, with the ambition of the event to continue to build the on and off track entertainment elements within the competitive elements of the weekend.
“The F1 car was successful and the SuperVan continues the theme of bringing unique, exciting and different vehicles to be on show at Mount Panorama,” Rudzis said.
“Brands want to be on track in Bathurst and the 12-Hour is an ideal showcase as it attracts such a loyal, broad and growing fanbase.
“Red Bull saw that last year and it got an incredible reaction. Ford are involved this year and we have other exciting on-track demonstrations yet to be announced that will be different and exciting for those at the track and those watching on TV.
“The 12 Hour is the best possible platform for manufacturers to showcase their technology and product and we’re building that side of things as much as we can. We’ve already had communication from brands looking to be involved in 2025 which is really exciting.
“Harris Park is going to be full this year with some exciting activations from brands, both those with a presence in the 12-Hour itself and others as well.”
Support categories add to the event program, with the Duggan Family Hotels Combined Sedans and Group S Historic Sports Cars both to deliver big grids and great racing.
“The support race program is about delivering great racing and a broad array of cars and competitors that might not run at other major events,” Rudzis explained.
“Combined Sedans are a staple of the event and have always been well supported with a lot of diverse machinery. They’re great to work with and there really is something for everyone in that field.
“Group S haven’t been part of the event for a long time so it’s great to have them back.
“In a way it’s the historic version of what GT3 racing is now – high profile sports cars modified to go racing. It’s a nice link to the heritage of the sport and what GT racing has become now.”
Finally, the 12-Hour will once again open the Intercontinental GT Challenge in 2024, a role it has fulfilled since the global GT3 Championships introduction in 2016.
The global calendar entrenches Mount Panorama’s position as one of the most iconic circuits in the world, with some of the best teams and drivers from around the world – and the best from Australia – returning to Bathurst this year.
“The calendar this year commences at the 12-Hour and then goes to Spa, the Nürburgring and Indianapolis,” Rudzis said.
“It puts Bathurst in the mix with three of the most iconic circuits in the world.
“Everywhere we go people reference Bathurst. At Spa last year fans, team owners, drivers and brands all wanted to talk about Bathurst, so it is globally important in the landscape.
“We work closely with (IGTC Promoters) SRO and we’re proud to be the opening round of the IGTC. We have a great working relationship with Stefan (Ratel) and his team - they’re increasing their involvement in Australian motorsport with Fanatec GT World Challenge and GT4 which will only have benefits for the 12-Hour and what we’re trying to do to build this event.
“It’s a global collaboration and one that is going from strength to strength.”
Interest is high in the 2024 event, which will be broadcast live on Fox Sports and the Seven Network this year.
A record number of campsites have been sold prior to the race while ticket sales are strong.
The final entry list will be revealed later this week and will be significantly expanded from the 2023 starting field.
The 2024 Repco Bathurst 12 Hour will be held between February 16-18, 2024 with tickets and camping still on sale.
The Repco Bathurst 12 Hour is supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.
