SVG and Richie Stanaway take out a commanding Bathurst 1000 victory

Van Gisbergen/Stanaway Clinch 2023 Bathurst 1000 Amid Intense Drama

Shane van Gisbergen and Richie Stanaway celebrated victory in the 2023 Bathurst 1000, emerging victorious amidst a thrilling finish overshadowed by mechanical concerns for several frontrunners.

The 60th running of the Great Race was dominated by the two full-time Triple Eight Race Engineering Camaros and the pole-sitting #99 Erebus Motorsport Camaro. However, mechanical issues played a significant role, most heartbreakingly for Red Bull Ampol Racing team-mate Broc Feeney, who experienced a gear lever mount failure with only 25 laps to go.

Just as Feeney's troubles manifested, Brodie Kostecki, driving the #99 Camaro, grappled with a steering problem. Adding to the suspense, van Gisbergen, who led the race, began to report a steering deadspot in his #97 Camaro. Despite the nerve-wracking developments, the Kiwi driver maintained a solid lead, securing the win.

Behind van Gisbergen, Kostecki managed to clinch the runner-up spot, making it two podium finishes in enduros for both him and co-driver David Russell. The third place was secured by the #11 Ford Mustang duo from Dick Johnson Racing/Shell V-Power Racing Team, Anton De Pasquale and Tony D’Alberto.

The race's early stages saw a gripping tussle between Erebus and Triple Eight. A double stacking incident, however, set back the #88 Camaro. Another crucial moment came on Lap 71, when a crash at The Dipper involving James Moffat in the #6 Tickford Mustang led to a Safety Car intervention.

As the race unfolded, various strategic moves and mechanical concerns shifted the balance, with van Gisbergen leading the pack. The Kiwi faced his own set of challenges, including a brake pedal issue. Yet, he managed to navigate these setbacks, demonstrating his championship-winning caliber.

Feeney's mechanical woes and subsequent pit stops allowed van Gisbergen to solidify his lead. Still, the latter half of the race wasn't without drama, as van Gisbergen reported a steering issue, making for a nail-biting finish. However, the New Zealander held his nerve and raced to victory, marking his third Bathurst 1000 win, while co-driver Stanaway celebrated his first.

The post-race standings saw Kostecki at the helm of the drivers' championship, holding a 131-point lead over van Gisbergen. The win and subsequent positions reshuffled the leaderboard, setting the stage for an enthralling continuation of the racing season.