That’s the second-largest three-day crowd in the event’s history, behind only the 2023 figure of 53,446.

It’s also an increase of over 4,000 from last year and comes despite a widely criticised entry of just 22 cars, eight less than 2024.

Predictions of a sedate race due to the smaller field were quashed early with several big incidents punctuating the opening hours.

The race enters its final hour with BMW, Ferrari and Mercedes filling the top three places.

Shane Rudzis, Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour event director, hailed a successful event.

“We have been treated to another fantastic edition of the Bathurst 12 Hour, and are thrilled to see over 50,000 people come through the gates to this year’s event.

“The weather has been brilliant, the racing has been action-packed, and from the Track timo Town to incredible partner activations in Harris Park as well as fantastic support categories on track, we are proud to have welcomed another very strong crowd to Australia’s International Enduro.

“We have also been honoured to welcome Jacky Ickx back to Mount Panorama, reuniting him with his 1977 Bathurst 1000-winning Ford Falcon, and seeing him take to the track in the stunning Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Concept for the very first time.

“The Bathurst 12 Hour allows us to showcase Mount Panorama to a global audience and welcome the world’s best to our favourite circuit.

“Thank you to our great partners at Meguiar’s, Bathurst Regional Council, the NSW Government, Foxtel and the Seven Network for their continued support of this iconic event.”