Unchanged SunEnergy1 Racing to defend 12 Hour

SunEnergy1 Racing will chase a hat-trick of Bathurst 12 Hour victories with an unchanged driver line up.

Mercedes factory driver Jules Gounon will chase a fourth straight win alongside fellow three-pointed star driver Luca Stolz and SunEnergy1 Racing owner Kenny Habul, who were all part of last year’s success.

This was the team’s second straight win with the trio also teaming up with Martin Konrad and Triple Eight to win the 2022 edition.

In addition to SunEnergy1’s back to back triumphs, 2023 completed a hat-trick for Gounon having also won the 2020 race with Jordan Pepper and Maxime Soulet in a Bentley.

Since conquering the Mountain yet again, Gounon also clinched the 2023 Intercontinental GT Challenge title.

The French driver based in Andorra is feeling refreshed and ready to fire for a stunning fourth straight win at his “favourite track”.

“I had a nice winter as the reigning IGTC champion. The title means a lot to me as it is something I worked to achieve for many years. You only reach it with consistent achievements in the world’s biggest and toughest races,” he said.

SunEnergy1 Racing’s first 12 hour win was in 2022.

“This year, I would like to build on this success and drive four good races. But that will certainly be more difficult as the pressure is higher when you aren’t racing as an outsider. 

“I hope for a good week at Bathurst. It is my undisputed favourite track and I can hardly wait to get back there.”

Whilst Gounon got most of the plaudits having fended off his rivals during a thrilling final stint last year and Habul was the local hero, Stolz has also been a key part of the back to back successes.

The 28-year-old is confident a hat-trick is possible.

“I am totally happy to return to Mount Panorama Circuit. For me, the race at Bathurst is always a highlight on the calendar,” he said.

“The track suits me very much and the scenery is simply mega. Together with Jules and Kenny, I was able to win the race the past two years. 

Jules Gounon steering the #75 Mercedes to glory.

“Of course, we will do everything to achieve the third consecutive win.”

The Bathurst 12 Hour will be Habul’s first at home since his horrific crash at the Spa 24 Hour last year but has since raced the Gulf 12 Hour and Daytona 24.

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