Miettinen dies in seven-car crash during Nurburgring race

Three laps into the qualifier race at the Nurburgring in Germany, a severe multi-vehicle collision claimed the life of Finnish racing driver Juha Miettinen. The incident, which involved seven cars, took place during the Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) qualifiers on Saturday, prompting an immediate stoppage of the event. A red flag was raised shortly after the crash, but the race was later suspended entirely as the situation worsened. Organisers confirmed that the event would not continue on Saturday evening, citing the critical nature of the accident.

According to the race organisers, the decision to halt proceedings came swiftly once the severity of the crash was assessed. “Race control stopped the event immediately to facilitate recovery and emergency response,” a statement noted. Despite rapid intervention by medical teams, Miettinen was unable to be saved after being removed from his vehicle. The driver succumbed to his injuries at the medical facility following unsuccessful resuscitation efforts.

“Shocked by what’s happened today,” wrote Max Verstappen on social media. “Motorsport is something we all love, but in times like this it is a reminder of how dangerous it can be.”

Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 champion set to compete in the upcoming 24-hour endurance race, extended his condolences to Miettinen’s family. The crash also left six other drivers with injuries, though none were reported to be in critical condition. They were taken to the hospital for evaluation. A minute of silence will be observed in tribute to Miettinen during Sunday’s race grid formation.

A minute’s silence will be held in memory of Miettinen during Sunday’s race grid formation. Listen to Back at Base on BBC Sounds.