BMW Returns to Bathurst 12 Hour with Ambitious Two-Car Pro Team

Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 AM

In a significant move for motorsport enthusiasts, the Belgian racing team WRT is set to make a strong comeback at the prestigious Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour race. The event marks the opening round of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, and WRT will field two BMW M4 GT3s in pursuit of their first victory since 2018. This strategic decision reflects the team's determination to reclaim its former glory on the challenging Mount Panorama circuit.

A Closer Look at WRT's Return to Bathurst

In the vibrant Australian summer, the historic Mount Panorama circuit prepares to welcome the Belgian powerhouse, WRT, as they bring not one but two formidable BMW M4 GT3s into the fray. Led by Vincent Vosse, this seasoned team has a rich history at Bathurst, having secured a memorable win in 2018 with an Audi R8 LMS GT3. Since then, they have been eager to add another chapter to their legacy.

The team achieved pole position earlier this year with driver Sheldon van der Linde, only to finish fifth in the No. 46 car driven by Valentino Rossi, Maxime Martin, and Raffaele Marciello. Now, with renewed vigor, WRT aims to go one step further. Although the driver lineups for this year’s event are yet to be announced, the anticipation is palpable among fans.

BMW, too, has high hopes for this year's race. Despite previous victories in 2007 and 2010, the brand has yet to claim a win in the GT3 era of the Bathurst 12 Hour. The possibility of running the cars in EVO specification remains uncertain, as new or updated models typically do not compete until after the annual Balance of Performance test session conducted by SRO Motorsport Group.

From a journalist's perspective, this development highlights the ever-evolving nature of motorsport. It underscores the relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation that drives teams like WRT and manufacturers like BMW. The return of a top-tier team to such a prestigious event not only adds excitement to the racing calendar but also serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of endurance racing. Fans can look forward to witnessing intense competition and thrilling moments as these elite teams battle it out on one of the world's most iconic tracks.