The Bathurst 12 Hour is set to welcome a new category in 2025, with the introduction of the Ferrari Challenge Australasia. This marks a significant milestone in the growth of Ferrari motorsport in Australia and New Zealand, with five thrilling rounds planned for the inaugural season.
Competitors in the Ferrari Challenge Australasia will compete for two titles: the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli Australasia for Ferrari 296 Challenge drivers, and the Ferrari Challenge Coppa Shell Australasia for Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo entrants. The series will kick off at the iconic Mount Panorama in Bathurst, running as a support category at the prestigious Bathurst 12 Hour.
In addition to the opening round at Bathurst, the Ferrari Challenge Australasia will also visit Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit in VIC, Sydney Motorsport Park in NSW, and Shell V-Power Motorsport Park in SA. These rounds will take place alongside the Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia Powered by AWS, promising exciting racing action for fans.
The race format for the Ferrari Challenge Australasia will include two practice sessions, two qualifying sessions, and two 30-minute races at each round. The championship will feature the dynamic Ferrari 296 Challenge for its first competitive outings in the region, alongside the existing Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo.
Antonello Coletta, Global Head of Ferrari Endurance and Corse Clienti, expressed excitement about the launch of the Australasia series, highlighting the strategic importance of expanding regional championships. The Ferrari Challenge Australasia will join other continental and regional series, providing participants in the region with memorable experiences on and off the track.
Participants in the Ferrari Australasia series will also have the opportunity to compete in the Finali Mondiali, an annual event held in Italy that marks the conclusion of the season for global competitors in the Prancing Horse’s Endurance and Corse Clienti programs.
The introduction of the Ferrari Challenge Australasia represents a significant step forward for Ferrari motorsport in the region, offering a platform for young drivers and gentlemen drivers to engage in GT racing. It builds upon the success of the Passione Ferrari Club Challenge and invites past and present Ferrari Challenge cars to participate, further expanding the community of Ferraristi embracing the passion of racing.