The Bathurst 12 Hour organisers have announced that Pirelli will become the sole tyre supplier for next three years starting in 2017.

After achieving their maiden victory this year while supporting the factory-backed TEKNO Autosport McLaren team at the event, the famous Italian brand will now exclusively supply tyres for the entire field from 2017 onwards.

The slick tyres used for GT racing are branded P Zero: just like the slicks that have become a central feature of Formula One. The name P Zero is used in the highest categories of motorsport such as GT racing.

“With Pirelli’s focus on prestige, Bathurst is an important place for us to be as one of the most famous names in motorsport,” said Pirelli motorsport director, Paul Hembery.

“It’s also close to the population centre of Sydney, which plays an important part in the driving culture of Australia, and where we are planning to expand our presence. Winning last year proved the value and exposure of the Bathurst 12 Hours for us, and we look forward to capitalising upon our engagement in 2017, equipping some of the best-known sports car manufacturers in the world on this truly spectacular circuit.”

Next year’s Bathurst 12 Hour event is set to take place at Mount Panorama on 3-5 February.