Fassler escapes unhurt after Corvette fire at Daytona
Marcel Fassler, defending GTLM winner at the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona, has avoided injury following a huge fire for the #4 Corvette at DIS this morning.
Marcel Fässler with a fire extinguisher at the #4 Corvette Racing Chevrolet Corvette C7.R on fire
Matthew Blasi
The Swiss driver exited promptly from the C7.R contender after it caught fire while entering NASCAR Turn 2 on the 3.56-mile road course at Daytona International Speedway as teams participated in the third and final day of the Roar Before the 24 test.
The incident brought out a lengthy red flag period for cleanup, while the cause of the fire remains unknown.
Fassler is sharing driving duties this weekend with Oliver Gavin and Tommy Milner, reforming the trio that last year conquered both Daytona and the Sebring 12 Hours.
In an official statement, Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S vp of performance vehicles and motorsports, explained:
"During this morning’s practice session at Daytona, the No. 4 Corvette C7.R experienced an issue with a fuel line that allowed fuel to escape, contact a hot surface and ignite. The fire was quickly extinguished.
"The damage was limited to the engine compartment of the car. The driver, Marcel Fässler, was taken to the infield care center as a precaution; he was evaluated, released and cleared to drive.
"Until the root cause of the issue with the #4 Corvette C7.R can be identified, the #3 Corvette C7.R will not return to the track this weekend.
"Both Corvette C7.Rs will be ready to race in the Rolex 24 at Daytona."
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