Frankfurt, Germany, January 7, 2025 – Motorsports enthusiasts are in for a treat as racing legend Jacky Ickx makes a triumphant return to Mount Panorama, this time behind the wheel of the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept. The global dynamic debut of this high-performance marvel will headline the Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race from January 31 to February 2, 2025.
This marks Ickx’s first appearance at Bathurst since his iconic victory in the 1977 Bathurst 1000, where he co-drove a Ford Falcon XC V8 to glory. The Belgian driver, renowned for his six-time Le Mans wins and eight Formula One victories, will showcase the capabilities of Genesis’ cutting-edge high-performance concept car in a series of demonstration laps.
A Showcase of Power and Innovation
The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept, first revealed at the 2023 Gran Turismo World Series Finals, has already captured imaginations as a digital racer in the Gran Turismo series. Its real-world debut at Bathurst will allow fans to witness its “Athletic Elegance” design philosophy in action, epitomizing Genesis’ venture into high-performance vehicles through the Genesis Magma program.
Joining the spotlight will be the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept, another testament to the brand’s engineering prowess. Fresh from its triumph as the fastest four-seater production car at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024, the GV60 Magma Concept will also grace the Bathurst track. With production set to begin this year, the GV60 Magma will pave the way for Genesis’ future high-performance lineup.
Jacky Ickx: The Gentleman Disruptor
Genesis’ partnership with Jacky Ickx underscores its commitment to excellence and innovation. Dubbed the “Gentleman Disruptor,” Ickx brings decades of experience and a storied career that has left an indelible mark on motorsport.
“I have always admired Genesis for its cultured elegance and design aesthetics,” Ickx said. “Mount Panorama is one of the world’s great motor racing venues, and I can’t wait to put the incredible Genesis X Gran Berlinetta through its paces.”
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Genesis’ Motorsport Ambitions
Bathurst isn’t just a showcase for Genesis’ high-performance concepts; it’s a precursor to the brand’s ambitious entry into endurance racing. The Genesis Magma Racing team will debut in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026, followed by the IMSA SportsCar Championship in 2027. Competing in the LMDh sports prototype category, Genesis aims to challenge motorsport giants at events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Daytona 24.
A Vision of the Future
As Genesis expands its high-performance offerings, it remains grounded in its commitment to sustainability and design innovation. The brand’s goal of achieving carbon net zero by 2035 aligns with its introduction of three dynamic electric models, including the flagship luxury saloon, Genesis G90.
With Jacky Ickx and the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta leading the charge, the Bathurst 12 Hour promises to be a landmark event for both motorsport fans and Genesis’ vision of luxury performance.
