BMW has announced a two-pronged factory-backed campaign for the 2023 Bathurst 12 Hour.
Drivers have yet to be announced for the two M4 GT3 entries, both of which will be run by BMW M Team WRT.
The February 3-5 event will represent the car’s southern hemisphere debut and forms part of the German marque’s newly announced commitment to the 2023 Intercontinental GT Challenge powered by Pirelli.
All up, BMW has locked in a 20-strong squad of drivers for next year, including 2018 Bathurst 12 Hour winner Dries Vanthoor, although it’s not yet clear who’ll make the trek out to Mount Panorama.
“After a successful 2022, including the title win in the DTM, we are shifting up another gear next year,” said Andreas Roos, head of BMW M Motorsport.
“We have improved what was already a very strong squad of works drivers with René Rast, Maxime Martin, Dries Vanthoor and Charles Weerts.
“We also welcome BMW M Team WRT as a new BMW M Motorsport team. We are facing some exciting sporting challenges in 2023 and the years to come, for which we need the best teams and drivers.
“After all, the goal is to add to the success story of the BMW brand in motor racing.”
Event director Shane Rudzis welcomed the news: “It’s incredibly exciting to have a brand like BMW commit to the Liqui Moly Bathurst 12 Hour.
“As the world returns to Mount Panorama in 2023, a two-car, factory BMW team is an awesome addition to what is shaping as a world-class field.
“BMW’s driver roster is remarkably strong and they have something special planned for their 12 Hour squad.
“The BMW M4 GT3 making its Australian racing debut at Mount Panorama will draw a lot of attention and knowing BMW, we know they will give it everything to try and win.”
BMW has been victorious at Bathurst before, winning every edition of the 6 Hour since that event’s 2016 debut.
