Muscle car power for Mount Panorama: Corvette will be represented at the Bathurst 12 Hour for the first time since 2013 – new manufacturer for IGTC 2026?
The Chevrolet Corvette is returning to Australia: a factory-supported Corvette Z06 GT3.R will compete in the Bathurst 12 Hour at Mount Panorama Circuit. This marks Corvette’s first official GT3 involvement in the Australian endurance classic in over a decade.
“It’s incredibly exciting to bring the Corvette Z06 GT3.R here to Australia,” said Jess Bala, Managing Director of General Motors Australia and New Zealand. “Corvette is a key part of our GM Specialty Vehicles portfolio, and our fans will love seeing this ultimate version live on the track at Bathurst.”
Jessica Dane, Corvette Racing Director, is also excited about the premiere: “Bathurst is one of the most prestigious GT races in the world. The GT3 platform allows us to compete in regions where we have not previously been represented. I’m excited to present the Z06 GT3.R to our Australian and New Zealand fans for the first time—at one of my favorite races ever.“
Shane Rudzis, Event Director of the Bathurst 12 Hour, adds: ”Fans have been eagerly waiting to see the Corvette here. The competition with the European manufacturers promises an exciting race in February.”
The commitment is also positive news for the Intercontinental GT Challenge (IGTC), which can hope to welcome another manufacturer for the new season.
A factory-supported Corvette from the Malaysian team Johor Motorsport JMR, which is also active in the GT World Challenge (GTWC) Asia, already competed in the 2025 Suzuka 1000 km race. Factory drivers Alexander Sims, Scott McLaughlin, and Nick Catsburg took third place in mid-September.
Although details about teams and drivers have not yet been officially announced, there is much to suggest that the Malaysian team will be the partner for the Corvette. Further information about drivers and teams will be announced in the coming weeks.