Berlin, April 20: Racing driver Juha Miettinen has tragically passed away following a multi-car collision during the ADAC 24h Nurburgring Qualifiers in Germany. The event was also set to feature four-time Formula One champion Max Verstappen.
Miettinen, aged 66, was involved in a serious incident early in the race, which resulted in a collision among seven competitors. Organizers reported that race control immediately halted the competition, and emergency services quickly arrived at the scene.
Despite their swift response, Miettinen could not be saved. He was extracted from his vehicle and later pronounced dead at the medical center after resuscitation efforts failed.
“Shocked by what’s happened today,” Verstappen shared on his Instagram Stories. “Motorsport is something we all love, but in times like this, it is a reminder of how dangerous it can be. Sending my heartfelt condolences to Juha’s family and loved ones.”
The race organizers released a statement detailing the incident: “During the first race of the ADAC 24h Nurburgring Qualifiers on April 18, 2026, a serious accident involving seven competitors occurred in the early stages. Following the collision, race control immediately halted the race to facilitate extensive recovery and rescue operations.”
They further stated, “Despite the prompt arrival of emergency services, the emergency medics were unable to save Juha Miettinen (BMW 325i, £121) after he had been extracted from the vehicle; he died at the Medical Centre after all resuscitation attempts proved unsuccessful. The other six drivers involved were taken to the Medical Centre and nearby hospitals for precautionary examinations, but none are in life-threatening condition.”
Organizers confirmed that the race would not resume on Saturday evening. A minute’s silence will be observed in Miettinen’s honor during the grid formation when competition resumes at 1 PM local time on Sunday.
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