Max Verstappen pays tribute following Juha Miettinen’s fatal crash at Nurburgring
Max Verstappen has expressed his condolences after racing driver Juha Miettinen, aged 66, tragically died in a horrific seven-car crash at Germany’s Nurburgring circuit during a qualifying event for the 24 Hour Race, reports BritPanorama.
The incident occurred approximately 25 minutes into the four-hour race. Verstappen, who was competing in the same event but not involved in the crash, took to social media to honour Miettinen’s memory.
Verstappen 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.”
Friends and fellow drivers have also paid tribute to Miettinen. One described him as a passionate presence at the Nurburgring, noting, “I’ve known Juha for 20 years, each one of them filled to the brim with him enjoying driving the Nurburgring, one of those guys that never seemed to be able to get enough of the place and was always there with a smile. RIP my friend.”
The race was halted as paramedics responded to the scene in an attempt to revive Miettinen, who later died at the medical centre. Race control reported, “During the first race of the ADAC 24h Nurburgring Qualifiers (April 18, 2026), a serious accident involving seven competitors occurred in the early stages of the race.” Emergency services unfortunately were unable to save him following the extraction from his vehicle.
In a solemn gesture, a minute’s silence will be observed in Miettinen’s honour prior to the start of Sunday’s race. The Nurburgring is well known as one of the most dangerous tracks in motorsport, having seen numerous fatalities in its long history. Since 1928, around 70 competitors have lost their lives during official races at the course, with the average annual death toll during public sessions estimated between three and 12.
As motorsport continues to attract passionate fans and drivers alike, incidents like these linger in the background, serving as chilling reminders of the sport’s inherent risks. The echoes of Miettinen’s legacy will undoubtedly resonate among those who knew him, and even as competitors push the limits on the track, the memory of such tragedies reflects the delicate balance between thrill and danger.
