Mark Porter died from his injuries on Sunday.
Last Update: Monday, October 9, 2006. 6:30am (AEST)

Porter's family appeals for privacy

The family of V8 driver Mark Porter, who died last night from injuries he suffered in a high speed collision at Bathurst on Friday, has appealed for privacy.

In a written statement, the family asked for privacy during the emotionally stressful time, and thanked hospital staff and all those who passed on their best wishes and prayers.

The 31-year-old New Zealand man was in a high-speed accident during the second last lap in the first race of the Development Series when his car spun sideways at the top of Mount Panorama, stalled and then was hit at high speed by Ford driver David Clark.

Clark put his car sideways to try to avoid the collision but he crashed into the driver's side door of the car at about 180 kilometres an hour.

Porter suffered serious head and abdominal injuries in the crash and died after two days in intensive care at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

He leaves behind his wife, Adrienne, and their one-year-old son Flynn.

V8 Supercars Australia said in a written statement that absolutely everything would be done to support Porter's family.

Meanwhile Clark has regained consciousness at Sydney's Neapean Hospital after being in a critical condition.

The accident follows the recent death of racing identity Peter Brock at the Targa West Rally in Western Australia.

V8 Supercars Australia says there will be a thorough review of cars engineering and safety standards.