Record field, new manufacturers and world-class drivers for IGTC opener

When the starting flag falls for the Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, it not only marks the beginning of one of the world’s most prestigious GT endurance races – the Australian classic also traditionally signals the start of the Intercontinental GT Challenge (IGTC) season. The 2026 edition promises to be one of the most exciting and high-caliber events of recent years. With new manufacturers, a record field, and numerous top international drivers, a pivotal start to the global GT3 season is on the horizon.

Record field and international diversity

A total of 35 vehicles will compete in the Pro, Pro-Am, Silver, Bronze, GT4, and Invitational classes in the 12-hour endurance race. The international dimension is particularly impressive: 115 drivers from 22 nations are registered. Among them are nine former overall winners, who collectively have 15 Bathurst victories to their name.

The variety of manufacturers is also remarkable: a total of twelve manufacturers are represented, ten of them in the highly competitive GT3 category. In addition to established giants like BMW, Ferrari, Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, Audi, and Lamborghini, two prominent new entrants are particularly noteworthy. Ford and Chevrolet will make their debut in the overall standings of the Intercontinental GT Challenge in 2026, while McLaren will compete in Bathurst with GT3 cars for the first time since 2020.

New manufacturers bring fresh momentum

Ford and Chevrolet's entry marks an important milestone for the series. Ford is competing with the new Mustang GT3, which will debut on one of the world's most demanding race tracks. The car will be driven by an experienced lineup of drivers, combining international endurance racing experience with local track knowledge. The program is considered a significant step in the manufacturer's global GT3 customer racing effort.

Corvette is also breaking new ground at Bathurst with the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R. Two cars will be entered, including a Pro car with an international driver trio and a Pro-Am entry with strong regional involvement. The debut of the US sports car icon underscores the growing importance of the IGTC as a global platform for manufacturer engagement.

Mercedes-AMG with a strong large contingent

Mercedes-AMG's commitment is particularly extensive. A total of ten Mercedes-AMG GT3s are on the entry list – more than ever before at the Bathurst 12 Hour. Six of them will compete in the Pro category, with further vehicles entered in Pro-Am and Bronze.

With this large contingent, Mercedes-AMG clearly aims to build on past successes and fight for the overall victory. The brand is one of the most successful manufacturers in recent years and is also among the favorites for victory at Mount Panorama in 2026.

World-class drivers and well-known names at the start

The field brings together numerous of the world's best GT drivers. With Kelvin van der Linde and Augusto Farfus, the reigning Bathurst overall winners are represented, as are several winners of major endurance classics, including the 24 Hours of Spa and the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.

Two-time Bathurst winner Matt Campbell also returns and is among the candidates for overall victory. Other prominent names like Raffaele Marciello, Maro Engel, Lucas Auer, and Alex Sims underscore the exceptional quality of the field.

Adding to the excitement is the return of Valentino Rossi. The MotoGP legend will compete again in Bathurst after securing a strong second place last year.

Strong local participation and special stories

In addition to international stars, numerous top Australian drivers are also represented. More than a quarter of the current Repco Supercars Championship participants are on the entry list, including champion Chaz Mostert, as well as other top drivers like Will Brown, Broc Feeney, and Cameron Waters.

The Quinn family is also writing a special story: three generations are competing together in an Audi R8 – a rare and symbolic example of the tradition and fascination of endurance racing.

The reigning GT World Challenge Australia champion, Brad Schumacher, will also be looking to back up his national success with a strong result at his home race.

Key races to kick off the IGTC season

As the first of five season rounds in the Intercontinental GT Challenge, the Bathurst 12 Hour traditionally holds great significance. Drivers and manufacturers collect important points for the overall standings of the global championship, regardless of their class classification.

The unique challenges of the track make the race even more demanding. The Mount Panorama Circuit is known for its tight passages, rapid changes of direction, and significant elevation changes. Added to this are the changing conditions between darkness and daylight, which test both man and machine equally.

Excitement and a groundbreaking season opener expected

With a top-class field of drivers, new manufacturers, and the largest grid in years, the 2026 Bathurst 12 Hour promises a spectacular start to the new GT season. The combination of experienced winners, ambitious newcomers, and international competition creates ideal conditions for an exciting and decisive race.

Already at the start of the season, it could become clear which manufacturers and drivers will play a decisive role in the Intercontinental GT Challenge title fight. One thing is certain: the endurance classic at Mount Panorama remains one of the most important and prestigious GT races worldwide – and in 2026, all signs point to top-class motorsport.