Bathurst 12 Hour: Key Driver Changes Confirmed

Significant updates have emerged regarding driver lineups for the upcoming Bathurst 12 Hour at Mount Panorama, with both Tsunami RT and Volante Rosso Motorsport confirming roster adjustments.

Tsunami RT Confirms Driver Change

Porsche team Tsunami RT has confirmed that New Zealand's Dan Gaunt will not participate in the Bathurst 12 Hour at Mount Panorama with their 911 GT3 R.

The team is now expected to compete with a three-driver lineup consisting of Alex Fontana, Johannes Zelger, and Fabio Babini in the Bronze class.

Tsunami RT stated on social media that Gaunt's absence is "due to personal commitments," wishing him all the best and hoping to see him on track soon.

Volante Rosso Motorsport Adds Jean-Baptiste Simmenauer

Volante Rosso Motorsport has confirmed Jean-Baptiste Simmenauer as its fourth driver for the McLaren 720S GT3. Simmenauer will join Supercars rookie Rylan Gray and Porsche Carrera Cup drivers Bayley Hall and Marcos Flack to complete the team's lineup.

Simmenauer was recently added to McLaren’s junior driver roster, making this weekend's Bathurst 12 Hour his first start with the brand.

"It’s my first time in Bathurst, and my first time in a McLaren GT3 car, so I’m very excited," Simmenauer said.

He described the Bathurst track as a mix between the Nordschleife and Monaco, noting its speed, risk, and narrow sections. Simmenauer also expressed excitement about driving the McLaren GT3 car, highlighting its carbon chassis and engine.

Event Schedule

The Bathurst 12 Hour is scheduled to take place from February 13-15. Sunday's main race is set to commence at 5:45 am AEDT.