The Liqui-Molu Bathurst 12 Hour will delay implementation of proposed changes to the sporting regulations for the 2020 race, announced last week.
Following “extensive consultation” with entrants and taking into account fan feedback, event organizers will instead review of the rulebook following the completion of the 2020 race in order to identify any potential changes.
Announced changes to the sporting regulations surrounding mandatory pit stop times, stint length, ‘joker’ pit stops and technical pit stops will not be implemented as a result.
While designed to bring the event regulations into line with other events on the Intercontinental GT Challenge powered by Pirelli calendar, feedback indicated the changes would not greatly enhance the on-track product, given the unique nature of long-distance racing at Mount Panorama.
Other changes, including the addition of the Silver Cup for amateur drivers, the introduction of the Lamborghini Super Trofeo car into Class B and the inclusion of driver cooling and in-car camera systems to each vehicle’s Balance of Performance weight, will remain in place for next year.
“We are very conscious of making sure we are listening to the feedback from our teams – which is why we are willing to make alterations after the proposed changes were already announced,” explained event director Kurt Sakzewski.
“The bulk of the feedback we received was that the changes would not enhance the on track product already in place, so we’ve listened to that and will put a hold on making any significant changes until following the 2020 race to be held next February.
“The current rules have been evolving for some time, so we’ll take the opportunity following the race to go through them completely and put together a package that suits one and all – both local teams and those coming from overseas.
“Some of the proposed changes also generated a strong reaction among fans of the race. We monitor fan reaction closely and certainly take that into account in our decision making as well.”