The official schedule for the 2026 Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour has been released, confirming three action-packed days of motorsport across the Easter long weekend at the iconic Mount Panorama Circuit.
Celebrating its 10th running, the Bathurst 6 Hour continues to grow as one of Australia’s premier production car endurance races, featuring a full-capacity 72-car grid and an expanded on-track program for 2026.
Event Highlights at a Glance
- Dates: April 3–5, 2026 (Easter Long Weekend)
- Location: Mount Panorama, Bathurst, NSW
- Main Race: Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour
- Race Start: 11:15 AM, Easter Sunday
- Grid Size: 72 Cars (Full Capacity)
- Support Categories: Trans Am, Aussie Racing Cars, Saloon Cars, Super TT, Circuit Excels
Expanded Track Time for 2026
For the first time, competitors will benefit from four dedicated practice sessions on Friday, delivering more track time and better race preparation.
The revised format includes a split session structure:
- Session 1: Class B1, B2, C, D, and E (40 minutes)
- Session 2: Class X, A1, and A2 (40 minutes)
This is followed by:
- Two combined one-hour practice sessions for all classes
- A final 40-minute systems check session on Saturday
This expanded schedule is designed to improve track efficiency, safety, and competitive balance across all classes.
Qualifying Format Explained
Saturday’s qualifying will follow a two-part knockout format:
- Qualifying 1: Sets positions for the lower half of the grid
- Qualifying 2: A 20-minute session to decide pole position
With a capacity grid and tight competition expected, qualifying will play a critical role in shaping race strategy.
Easter Sunday Race Start Time
The 2026 Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour will begin at 11:15 AM on Easter Sunday, adjusted to account for the end of daylight saving time earlier that morning.
This prime start time ensures maximum visibility for fans both trackside and watching live.
Support Categories Deliver Non-Stop Action
A strong support lineup ensures continuous on-track excitement throughout the weekend, featuring:
- Trans Am Series
- Battery World Aussie Racing Cars
- Australian Saloon Car Nationals
- Super TT
- Circuit Excels
Support Program Highlights
- Trans Am Series:
Practice and qualifying on Friday, two races on Saturday, and a final sprint race on Sunday. - Aussie Racing Cars:
Four high-intensity sprint races across the weekend. - Saloon Cars, Super TT & Circuit Excels:
Three races each, with the Saloon Car National Champion crowned on Sunday morning.
With large grids expected across all categories, fans can expect non-stop racing from start to finish.
Entry List & TV Coverage Coming Soon
The full 72-car entry list will be released later this week, alongside a record-breaking TV broadcast package, delivering extensive live coverage across Saturday and Sunday.
Why the 2026 Event Is Bigger Than Ever
With expanded track time, a full grid, and a packed support program, the 2026 Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour is shaping up to be the biggest edition yet.
Whether you’re attending trackside at Mount Panorama or tuning in from home, this year’s event promises elite-level endurance racing, high-intensity competition, and an unforgettable Easter motorsport experience.
