Corvette confirmed for 2026 Bathurst 12 Hour

Chevrolet is set to enter the 2026 Meguiar's Bathurst 12 Hour with their iconic Corvette.

It marks the first time that General Motors have entered the 12 Hour in it's GT3 era, and also the first time that a current-generation Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R will compete on Australian shores.

It adds an exciting new flavour to the now-traditional opener to the Australian motor racing season, with the American performance staple taking on the European makes that have dominated the race in recent years.

The Corvette will also bring a taste of V8 thunder to Mount Panorama, with the mid-engine car powered by a naturally aspirated 5.5L V8.

“It’s incredibly exciting for us to welcome the Corvette GT3.R down under,” said GM Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Jess Bala.

“Corvette has played a major part in the success of our GM Specialty Vehicles brand – and there will be many passionate Corvette enthusiasts who will love to see this ultimate version of the car debut on track at Bathurst in February."

Meguiar's Bathurst 12 Hour Event Director Shane Rudzis also welcomed the news, saying that the American addition will quickly become a 12 Hour fan favourite.

"The Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour welcomes the addition of the Corvette GT3.R, this is something the fans have been eagerly wanting to see for a long time,” Rudzis said.

“To have the Corvette competing against the European manufacturers, is going to make for a highly anticipated matchup come February”.

An announcement on which team will be running the program and which drivers will complete the driving roster will be made in due course.

The 2026 Meguiar's Bathurst 12 Hour will take place from February 13-15. Tickets for the event are available through the Bathurst 12 Hour website.