The updated regulations for the 2025 Bathurst 12 Hour race have been released as entries open for Australia’s International enduro. The race is scheduled to take place between January 31 to February 2 next year, serving as the opening round of the Intercontinental GT Challenge in 2025. These regulations have been refined to align the event with other GT3 endurance races worldwide, following consultations between Supercars, SRO, competitors, Motorsport Australia, and other key stakeholders.
One of the key changes to the 2025 event regulations is the introduction of two formation laps followed by the traditional two-by-two rolling start. The qualifying format has also been revised, with Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2 determining the 10 cars to progress to the final phase of qualifying. Part 3 of Pirelli Qualifying will feature a ‘Pirelli Pole Battle’ session with the quickest car earning the Allan Simonsen Pole Award.
Class requirements have been adjusted to align with international races, allowing for either three or four drivers in the Pro-Am category. Driver times have been simplified, with Bronze drivers now permitted to drive for up to 120 minutes before swapping, providing more strategic flexibility. Additionally, a minimum drive time rule has been extended to Silver class drivers.
Pit stop rules have been streamlined into ‘Timed’ and ‘Untimed’ stops for fuel and driver changes, with safety car regulations now reflecting the Supercars Operations Manual. The Balance of Performance system will include maximum stint lengths to ensure equal performance among GT3 cars. The Sporting & Technical and Event Supplementary Regulations are available online for teams and competitors on the Bathurst 12 Hour website.
Event Director Shane Rudzis expressed that the 2025 regulations represent minor evolutions rather than significant changes, aiming to maintain the excitement of the race. Collaboration with partners at SRO has ensured alignment with international events and GT3 championships, while preserving the unique aspects of the Bathurst 12 Hour. The absence of a minimum drive time for Bronze drivers in Pro entries has become a defining feature of the race, offering opportunities for drivers like Kenny Habul to compete for the overall win.
The decision to implement two formation laps aims to enhance the race’s spectacle, while the return to a 10-car battle for pole position promises an exciting conclusion to Saturday’s events. Entries for the 2025 race are now open, welcoming teams from around the world and Australia to participate in another thrilling event next February.