Intercontinental GT Challenge Powered by Pirelli pledges unique donation bushfire appeal

Organisers of the Intercontinental GT Challenge Powered by Pirelli, SRO Motorsports Group, will play a unique role in the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour’s coordinated response to the catastrophic bushfires burning across Australia since November last year.

On Tuesday the event announced a series of fundraising initiatives in aid of its official charity, the Australian Lions Club Foundation National Bushfire Appeal. The organisation of dedicated volunteers will distribute 100% of donations to the communities and wildlife affected by bushfires.

SRO’s total contribution to the same charity is based on the performance of each Intercontinental GT Challenge entry contesting Australia’s International Enduro – which also stages round one of the world’s only global GT3 series – next weekend (January 31 – February 2).

In line with Bathurst’s own fundraising suggestions for each team, SRO will donate $5 AUD for every racing lap completed by all entries nominated to score Intercontinental points.

While the final number of #IntGTC manufacturers and cars won’t be revealed until next week, a repeat of 2019’s Bathurst result would generate more than $22,000 AUD.

As well as raising funds for the Lions Club Foundation, the Bathurst 12 Hour will also support the tireless efforts of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service throughout the event. Each race car will sport the RFS logo, while all RFS volunteers who wish to attend will receive a double pass for free.

The event is also working with the New South Wales Government to assist in activating their regional travel promotional efforts.

Click here to donate to the Australian Lions Club Foundation National Bushfire Appeal.

Stephane Ratel, SRO Motorsports Group Founder and CEO: “The recent devastation across Australia has had a profound effect on millions of people around the world. And, with Bathurst hosting Intercontinental GT Challenge’s opening round next weekend, I feel very strongly that SRO should play a role in helping the local community.

“Basing our response around the spirit of endurance seems entirely appropriate. To win, our teams and drivers must complete as many laps as possible, something they were particularly good at last season when six Intercontinental entries broke the distance record. I’d be delighted to see them repeat that feat next weekend and generate a substantial donation for the Australian Lions Club Foundation National Bushfire Appeal.”

Bathurst’s ‘Town to Track’ parade kicks off the event next Thursday before cars turn their first practice laps on Friday. Qualifying and the Pirelli Top-10 Shootout follow on Saturday ahead of Sunday’s race, which starts at 05:45.

Australia’s bushfires and the wider global climate emergency has focused the world’s attention on a need for lasting change. SRO Motorsports Group recognises its own responsibility to building a sustainable future and is already taking active measures to reduce its environmental impact. Details of its increasing commitment will be announced in due course.