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Gulf 12H

Gulf 12H Unveils Format Tweaks for Pro-Am Return

Driving Force confirms format change, outlines lineup requirements for 13th edition of Yas Marina enduro…

Photo: JEP/SRO

Driving Force Events has unveiled a series of format changes to the Gulf 12 Hours, including the reintroduction of a mid-race break, as the event returns to a Pro-Am setup for the first time since January 2022.

The Middle Eastern enduro formed part of the Intercontinental GT Challenge in both 2022 and 2023, but has not returned to the calendar this year as organizers sought to return the event to its Pro-Am focus in 2024.

In addition to outlining a new lineup requirements, Driving Force confirmed that it will do away with the interrupted 12-hour runtime that was a feature of the IGTC rounds to return to a format that will see the race broken up into two segments with a break in between.

As first suggested by CEO Andrea Ficarelli last year, this year’s event will consist of an opening segment of eight hours, after which the remaining four hours will be completed following a two-hour break.

Furthermore, the class structure has been outlined as consisting of Pro, Pro-Am and Bronze, although lineups entirely consisting of professional drivers will not be permitted.

As stated by the series, the Pro category can be contested by car crews featuring either one Bronze alongside any combination of Platinum, Gold or Silver drivers, or three Silver drivers.

A Pro-Am crew must feature at least two Bronze-rated drivers, while Am-category entrants are prohibited from having any Gold or Platinum drivers as part of the lineup.

“We continuously strive to make the Gulf 12 Hours a memorable and enjoyable end to the racing season and the 2024 edition will be another milestone,” said Ficarelli.

“As well as the familiar benefits of a world-class venue, a unique atmosphere and great facilities in ideal weather conditions, we have adjusted the race format and driver categorisations, based on constructive discussions with the teams and drivers.

“These factors will combine to make the 2024 Gulf 12 Hours another unforgettable experience.”

Davey Euwema is Sportscar365's European Editor. Based in The Netherlands, Euwema covers the FIA World Endurance Championship, European Le Mans Series and Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, among other series.

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