A fatal crash during the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers on Saturday resulted in the death of 66-year-old Finnish driver Juha Miettinen and injuries to six other competitors. The accident occurred approximately 25 minutes into the four-hour race at the Karussell section of the Nordschleife circuit, prompting race officials to halt the event immediately. Emergency services were unable to revive Miettinen, who was pronounced dead at the medical center. The other six drivers were transported to hospitals for precautionary examinations but were not in life-threatening conditions.
Max Verstappen, who was competing in the race but not involved in the crash, shared his condolences on Instagram. The four-time Formula One champion wrote, 'Shocked by what happened today. 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.' A minute’s silence will be held in Miettinen’s memory during Sunday’s grid formation.
The Nürburgring’s Nordschleife, known as the 'Green Hell,' is a 20.8 km (12.9 miles) circuit with over 150 corners and a history of high-risk racing. Since its opening in 1927, the track has seen 70 fatalities during official races. The circuit, which last hosted a Formula One race in 1976, remains a challenging venue for drivers due to its wooded hills and close barriers.