Key updates have been announced for the 2025 Bathurst 12 Hour, with changes aimed at improving the racing experience and aligning with international standards.
 
A significant change for 2025 is the introduction of two formation laps prior to the traditional two-by-two rolling start, which is expected to improve the overall experience for drivers and teams. 
 
The qualifying format will also be updated, with Qualifying 1 and 2 determining the top 10 cars that will advance to the final phase later in the weekend.
 
Adding to the excitement, the new Pirelli Pole Battle will see the 10 qualifying cars compete for the Allan Simonsen Pole Award, with details on session length to be announced closer to the event.
 
Class requirements have been modified to better align with international practices, with teams in the Pro-Am category to now consist of either three drivers (one Platinum/Gold/Silver and two Bronze-ranked) or four drivers (two Platinum/Gold/Silver and two Bronze).
 
Additionally, Bronze drivers are now allowed to drive for up to 120 minutes before a swap, an increase from the previous limit of 80 minutes, allowing drivers to achieve greater strategic flexibility.
 
Pit stops rules have been simplified to clearly distinguish between timed and untimed stops, and Safety Car regulations have been updated to align with the Supercars Operations Manual.
 
Next year’s regulations will introduce provisions for maximum stint lengths, measured in laps and aiming to ensure equitable performance across the diverse GT3 grid.

 
Event Director Shane Rudzis is aiming to refine a successful 2024 framework with these updates, blending international standards with the unique elements of the Bathurst 12 Hour for a better racing experience.
 
“It’s always a lengthy and intricate process refining the regulations year on year. The 2025 regulations reflect more minor evolutions rather than wholesale change, with the regulations broadly very similar to what produced such an exciting race in 2024,” Rudzis said. 
 
“We have worked closely with our partners at SRO to further ensure the race reflects the key international events and GT3 championships to ensure familiarity for teams racing both here and abroad, while continuing to embrace the unique factors that make the Bathurst 12 Hour very much its own thing.”
 
With new elements being introduced, Rudzis remains committed to ensuring these improved elements become a key factor for both drivers and their teams, especially with entries set to open soon.
 
“Elements like no minimum drive time applying to Bronze drivers when they’re part of a Pro entry have become a key factor in the race and allowed the likes of Kenny Habul an opportunity to win outright where otherwise they might not get the chance,” Rudzis said. 
 
“At the same time the option to go to two formation laps is designed to improve the show, preserve the thrill of the two-by-two rolling start and remove some of the challenges at the race start and in the opening laps, regardless of conditions or weather at the time.
 
“Entries will open very soon and we’re excited to start welcoming teams from around the world and Australia to join us on the Mountain for another incredible race next February.”
 
The 2025 Bathurst 12 Hour will be held at the iconic Mount Panorama on 30 January – February.