Bathurst local road renamed after Gran Turismo video game

'Gran Turismo Drive' is intended to pay tribute to the Gran Turismo franchise’s detailed recreation of the Mount Panorama motor racing circuit in the game's latest edition.

The street was officially opened by racing veteran Shane Jacobson, as well as the Mayor of Bathurst, Cr Gary Rush.

“Driving a lap of our world famous motor racing circuit is a life changing experience for those who have the chance, and the Bathurst Regional Council is very excited about opening up the Mount Panorama experience through the launch of Gran Turismo 6,” Rush said.

Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi expressed the franchise’s appreciation of Bathurst’s gesture.

“We are extremely proud to be acknowledged by the City of Bathurst for the years of dedication we have invested in recreating Mount Panorama in Gran Turismo 6.”

“It only seems right that the legendary Mount Panorama circuit is included as fans will now have the chance to drive one of the toughest tracks out there. With Mount Panorama immortalised in the Gran Turismo series, it is now truly remarkable to see GT immortalised on The Mount itself.”

Fans will be able to visit Mount Panorama when the video game is released this Friday, taking part in an organised walk down the internal circuit road and visiting the circuit's pit garages. An interactive exhibit will also be opened at the National Motor Racing Museum, giving museum-goers the chance to play the video game as part of a group.