THE Repco Bathurst 1000 will proceed as planned over the next four days despite grim weather, Supercars boss Shane Howard has declared.
Rain fell consistently at the circuit during setup activities today (Wednesday) and is forecast to remain for the following four days of track action.
It puts a major dampener on an event that was set to be the biggest Bathurst in years, given the COVID-19 restrictions in 2020 and ’21.
Supercars has issued a statement this evening stressing that the event will take place as planned.
“The Repco Bathurst 1000, one of Australia’s premier outdoor sporting events will be proceeding as planned this weekend,” said Howard.
“In light of the weather forecast over the coming days, patrons are encouraged to plan accordingly.
“Sessions will begin for all categories on track on Thursday and run through until Sunday’s great race.
“Off track entertainment at the top and bottom of the mountain will also proceed as planned.
“We will act accordingly to ensure the safety of patrons and competitors at all times.
“We saw this morning thousands of fans lining Bathurst’s CBD to welcome the drivers to town at the driver’s parade and autograph sessions.
“We thank our fans who have arrived at Mount Panorama and look forward to four memorable days at the Repco Bathurst 1000.”
No change to tyre allocation
Supercars meanwhile clarified the weekend’s wet tyre allocation to its teams this morning, with no late changes to the allotment for qualifying and the race.
Each car is allowed five sets of wets from qualifying onwards, which some squads believe is not enough given that there are seven compulsory pitstops in the race.
Teams are responsible for bringing their own wet tyres for use throughout the practice sessions.
Control tyre supplier Dunlop has brought an extra two sets of wets per car that can be purchased by teams for use in practice.
Those tyres cannot though be used in qualifying or the race.
First practice for the 2022 Repco Bathurst 1000 is set to commence at 11:00am.
