Ickx returns to Bathurst, reunites with legendary 1977 winning car

Motorsport icon Jacky Ickx has returned to Bathurst ahead of this weekend’s Bathurst 12 Hour at Mount Panorama, reuniting with the Ford Falcon he famously drove to victory alongside Allan Moffat in 1977.

Now 80 years old, the Belgian legend’s presence serves as a reminder of his remarkably diverse career, which saw him excel across multiple racing disciplines.

Ickx, an eight-time Formula 1 Grand Prix winner and six-time Le Mans champion, was presented to the media on Thursday for a special trophy handover.

The 1977 Bathurst-winning trophy, entrusted to Bathurst Mayor Robert ‘Stumpy’ Taylor, will now reside at the National Motor Racing Museum.

“It was unexpected in a way, and I can say it’s nice to be back,” Ickx told the media.

However, his return was bittersweet due to the absence of his former co-driver and local legend.

“My first comment is to say we are missing Allan Moffat, who has been a real legend in Australian saloon car racing. He is a multi-winner at Bathurst, and yes, I had the chance to be with him and we won the race,” added the Genesis brand ambassador.

“The memories of the win and the cars is one point, but the most important is the memory of the people you have met in your life,” he said.

Ickx’s presence at Bathurst underscores his enduring connection to one of the world’s most challenging circuits and a career that spanned F1, endurance racing, and even the grueling Dakar Rally.