Marciello fastest as crash cuts short Practice 4

Raffaele Marciello has topped final Friday practice in Bathurst, which was cut short due to a major incident at The Chase.

Marciello’s 2:03.9958s proved the best of a session shortened due to a crash for Keith Kassulke.

Kassulke (#52 MARC) suffered a suspected mechanical failure as he approaching the braking zone of The Chase.

Track vision showed Kassulke launching off the kerb into the braking zone at The Chase.

The #52 II V8 careened into the tyre barriers, with barrier damage ultimately ending the session.

Kassulke ended up on his roof, such was the severity of the impact.

The incident occurred midway through the 40-minute session. The session was later declared as crews attended to Kassulke.

Kassulke was communicating with recovery crews during the stoppage.

Track vision showed Kassulke launching off the inside kerb into the braking zone.

Kassulke had been due to race the #52 entry with Cameron McLeod and Hadrian Morrall.

He was later cleared of serious injuries per a statement from the Bathurst 12 Hour.

"Following his accident in Practice 4 for the LIQUI MOLY Bathurst 12 Hour, MARC Cars Australia driver Keith Kassulke was taken to the circuit medical centre for checks,” the statement reads.

"Keith was conscious throughout, communicating with the recovery teams and suffered no major injuries.

"Further information will follow when available.

"The session was red flagged and was not restarted due to the damage caused to the tyre wall following the impact.

"At this stage the cause of the accident has not been determined."

It ensured Marciello (#999 Mercedes-AMG) ended Friday with the fastest time.

The Italian was the only driver of the day to clock a 2:03s lap time.

Jules Gounon (#75 Mercedes-AMG) was second with a 2:04.1362s ahead of Mathieu Jaminet (#912 Porsche).

A total of 25 cars took part in the session, with the #66 SIN R1 not taking part.

An engine failure in the #50 KTM also forced M Motorsport/Vantage Racing to switch cars.

The team swapped into a spare Audi prior to Practice 4 in order to take part in the weekend.