Get ready for an exciting announcement in the world of racing! Zach Bates, the rising star of the Super2 series, is gearing up for his first-ever Bathurst 12 Hour race, and it's a big one! But here's where it gets controversial... This young talent will be joining a formidable 10-car Mercedes-AMG lineup, the largest entry by one brand in this year's event. Will he be able to hold his own against some of the best GT drivers in the world? Let's find out.
The #47 Supabarn Supermarkets AMG, run by Tigani Motorsport, is a force to be reckoned with. Bates will be joining brothers Theo and James Koundouris, as well as Porsche Carrera Cup star David Russell. The Koundouris brothers have a strong connection with Bates' father, Rick, having worked and raced alongside him in the past. So, this isn't just any ordinary race for Bates; it's a chance to learn from some of the best in the business.
But here's the twist: Bates' full-time debut in the Repco Supercars Championship is just one weekend after the 12 Hour. This means he'll be bringing valuable seat time to the table, which is a huge advantage in the highly anticipated season. So, is he ready for the challenge? Will he be able to balance his debut and the 12 Hour race effectively? We'll have to wait and see.
The Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour is set to commence on Friday, February 13th, with the race starting at 5:45 am AEDT on Sunday, February 15th. Will Bates be able to make a splash in his first attempt at Australia's international enduro? Stay tuned to find out! And don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments. Do you think Bates is up for the challenge? Or is this a recipe for disaster? Let's hear your thoughts!