The most successful driver in the history of the race, having won each of the past three editions in 2020, 2022 and 2023, Gounon will again line up with fellow Mercedes gun Luca Stolz and SunEnergy1 patron Kenny Habul as he begins his defence of the Intercontinental GT Challenge title on 18 February.
Gounon, Stolz and bronze-rated Habul won the 2022 edition with Martin Konrad when the event returned as a Pro-am contest, following a COVID-enforced hiatus in 2021, before claiming a remarkable victory against full-Pro line-ups in 2023 as Gounon staved off late pressure from Matt Campbell's Porsche.
“I had a nice winter as the reigning IGTC champion," said Gounon, who conquered Bathurst in 2020 for Bentley with Maxime Soulet and Jordan Pepper.
"The title means a lot to me as it is something I worked to achieve for many years. You only reach it with consistent achievements in the world’s biggest and toughest races.
"This year, I would like to build on this success and drive four good races. But that will certainly be more difficult as the pressure is higher when you aren’t racing as an outsider.
"I hope for a good week at Bathurst. It is my undisputed favourite track and I can hardly wait to get back there."
Source: Autosport