Mercedes-AMG Eyes Bathurst Glory
The Storied German Marque Aiming for Historic Third Win
Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing is set for a monumental challenge at the Repco Bathurst 12 Hour, with aspirations for a third consecutive victory. The event, taking place at the legendary Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, Australia, will see a formidable lineup of ten Mercedes-AMG customer sports cars, the largest contingent among all brands. Jules Gounon, a three-time Bathurst winner and the reigning IGTC champion, leads the charge, aiming for an unprecedented fourth victory. The inclusion of last year's winning trio, Gounon, Kenny Habul, and Luca Stolz, alongside other high-calibre drivers across various classes, boosts the team's confidence.
Stefan Wendl, Head of Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing, highlighted the importance of experience in this demanding race and expressed pride in fielding the largest brand contingent. “Because of our wins in the past two cars, we are in the favourites’ role at Bathurst, so to say. To live up to the high expectations, we are again relying on our established Performance Teams and a line-up of high-quality drivers and local heroes. In this demanding race, experience is a decisive factor. Moreover, it makes us proud that we have the largest contingent of all brands with ten cars in this year’s field of the Bathurst 12 Hour. We are looking forward to the competition, and we are optimally prepared for the challenge.”
Driver quotes highlight the anticipation and determination within the team. Gounon shared his aspirations to build on his previous success and his affection for the Bathurst track, “I had a nice winter as the reigning IGTC champion. The title means a lot to me as it is something I worked to achieve for many years. You only reach it with consistent achievements in the world’s biggest and toughest races. This year, I would like to build on this success and drive four good races. But that will certainly be more difficult as the pressure is higher when you aren’t racing as an outsider. I hope for a good week at Bathurst. It is my undisputed favourite track, and I can hardly wait to get back there.”
Stolz expressed eagerness to secure a third consecutive win, emphasising the team's commitment, “I am totally happy to return to Mount Panorama Circuit. For me, the race at Bathurst is always a highlight on the calendar. The track suits me very much and the scenery is simply mega. Together with Jules and Kenny, I was able to win the race the past two years. Of course, we will do everything to achieve the third consecutive win.”
Maximilian Götz and Maro Engel highlighted their connections to the circuit and their ambitions for victory, underscoring the collective resolve to continue Mercedes-AMG's success at Bathurst.
The upcoming Bathurst 12 Hour poses a significant challenge and a chance for Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing to establish its place in endurance racing history. The team, which includes seasoned champions and passionate rookies, is ready for an exceptional performance on one of the biggest stages in motorsports.