All Over For Ford At The 12Hr.

Ford driver Chris Mies advocated for a later start time for the Bathurst 12 Hour race after a kangaroo struck his car during the opening minutes of the 2026 event.

Mies was traveling at approximately 250km/h when the kangaroo hit the top left of his Mustang’s windscreen.

Although uninjured, Mies described the impact as significant and expressed relief that the car's safety features prevented worse outcomes, noting that half of the kangaroo entered the car.

The incident left Mies disoriented and covered in blood and kangaroo remains, making it difficult for him to see and safely pull off the track. He later vomited and underwent medical checks, still recalling the unpleasant smell.

Mies highlighted that kangaroos have been a recurring problem at this year's Bathurst 12 Hour, with another car also hitting one.

He suggested that organizers consider starting the race later, around 7 or 8 AM instead of 5:50 AM, or installing large fences to prevent such incidents.

Mies attempted to clean his bloody race helmet after an incident, explaining that it was expensive and he wanted to save it.

His teammate, Dennis Olsen, assisted him in removing the interior and cutting the chin strap. Mies plans to send the helmet to Stilo for repair and a new interior, hoping to use it again in Sebring.