Pro Audi to continue R8 GT3 legacy at Mount Panorama
JAMEC RACING and Team MPC will ensure Audi is represented in the outright fight for this year’s Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour.
The team has confirmed the Pro class entry of an Audi R8 LMS to Australia’s International Enduro, with Supercars star Broc Feeney, reigning GT World Challenge Australia champion Liam Talbot and 2024 Nürburgring 24 Hour winner Ricardo Feller sharing the driving duties.
The Audi will sport number 183, a nod to the number of current-generation Audi R8 LMS GT3 cars produced – the car one of the most successful in GT3 racing history around the world.
The late addition to the grid comes after the team grabbed third position in a thrilling finish to last year’s race, returning Audi to the Bathurst podium for the first time since they last won the race in 2018.
Audi have claimed Australia’s International on three occasions, the equal-most of any brand in event history.
It means Team MPC will field two cars, the Pro entry joining the existing Hallmarc Racing Bronze contender to be driven by Marc Cini, Lee Holdsworth and Dean Fiore.
The entry returns Broc Feeney to the grid, the Red Bull Ampol Racing Supercars driver at one point without a drive for this year’s race.
The Queenslander has proven spectacular in GT3 machinery and has qualified second for the race for the last two straight years.
“I’m thankful to Troy and Steve for making it happen. I was benched pretty late notice and I had my helmet off and was going to be sitting on the sidelines, so I couldn’t have been happier when the phone rang,” Feeney said.
“It’s been an awesome event for me and being on the front row for the last two years has made it super special but it made it more painful to know I was missing out.
“It’s a great opportunity to get laps before the start of our season at a huge event and one of my favourites.
“When I spoke with Troy (Russell, MPC co-owner) we were both on the same page and we didn’t want to waste time doing it unless we could go there and fight for the win. With the drivers, the team and the car we have every opportunity to get some great results.
“It’s been super last minute, but they’re super confident in their package and I’m excited.”
Talbot enjoyed a spectacular season in GT World Challenge Australia in 2024, pairing with Chaz Mostert to claim the title in style – going back-to-back after winning his first championship with Team MPC the year prior.
His return to Audi comes after his most recent drive for the team delivered them an outright podium finish in the 2024 Bathurst 12 Hour.
Feller has become a staple for the brand on the Mountain, the 24-year-old Swiss driver set for his fourth Bathurst start this year, having claimed a dramatic and weather-shortened Nürburgring 24 Hour race aboard an Audi last year.
Jamec Racing’s Steven McLaughlin said he was excited to bring the combination together for this year’s race.
“Initially we weren’t going to run – in the past we have had support from Audi however unfortunately they’ve wound down their factory support globally.
“The Audi was quite strong internationally throughout 2024 and once we knew we could secure Ricardo Feller we were able to put this program together.
“We know what he’s capable of on the mountain and we were only interested in running if we were in with a chance to win the race. We’re not there to make up the numbers.
“I knew about Broc and he’s done a great job last couple of years and has been equal to anyone at Mountain. Liam has a ton of experience in the car and will be right there.
“It won’t be equipment and won’t be drivers that puts us out of contention - if lady luck gets us into the last hour then we should be competitive.
“Personally, I’m still keen to support category and the race and have another Audi on the grid and hopefully it’s great for those that follow the brand and our team.”
The team will unveil the livery for the Jamec Racing #183 closer to the event.
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