GTWS mid season review
The 2023 Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS has delivered a thrilling spectacle across the first half of the season, featuring an intense battle for supremacy among the leading German automakers: Porsche, Audi, and Mercedes-AMG.
Marked by excitement and occasional controversy, this year has proven to be one of the series' most competitive editions to date. While Audi and Mercedes-AMG have continued to impress, the resurgence of Porsche as a dominant force in domestic GT3 racing has been a standout feature.
The season commenced with a triumphant start at Mount Panorama's Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6-Hour, where Liam Talbot and co-driver Max Hofer set the pace. Talbot's adept defense in the opening stint secured a lights-to-flag victory, with Brad Schumacher providing strong competition in the Fuchs-backed Audi. The battle between the leading Am Class competitor and dual-reigning series champion Yasser Shahin added excitement, ultimately resulting in Talbot's victory.
At Phillip Island, Cooper Webster of Versa Motorsport took pole position, posing a challenge to Talbot's dominance. However, Mawson remained unstoppable, securing another win. Sunday's races witnessed a narrative shift, as Webster achieved his maiden race win and continued his success with a double victory, capturing his first round win in the category.
The series ventured west to Wanneroo Raceway for Round two, accompanying the Supercars championship. Yasser Shahin and Garnet Patterson claimed a Porsche victory, marking Porsche's return to the winners' circle. Liam Talbot faced challenges, while Mercedes AMG GT3 and Audi R8 LMS engaged in a spirited battle for podium spots. Schumacher won the Am class, and Renee Gracie made her triumphant return.
Race two at Wanneroo witnessed Talbot and Hofer's return to form, securing their third victory from four races. The Jamec Racing Audi entries of Emery and Mies, along with Triple Eight Racing's Ibrahim and Stanaway, showcased their prowess with podium finishes. Schumacher maintained his dominance in the Am class, while Gracie once again triumphed in the Trophy class.
The Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit hosted Round 3, where the season's most dramatic race unfolded. Yasser Shahin and Garnet Patterson's Porsche initially claimed victory, but a penalty demoted them to fourth. Grove and Hofer secured a dominant win, while Shahin and Talbot battled fiercely for second. Amid the intense competition, the series heads into its second half with Max Hofer leading the championship standings, closely pursued by Geoff Emery, Liam Talbot, and the Shahin-Patterson Porsche duo.
The season's compelling action, with its dynamic twists and fierce contenders, sets the stage for an exhilarating second half of the Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS.
