Veteran racing driver Juha Miettinen has died following a devastating seven-car crash during a race at the iconic Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit in Germany.
The incident happened during the early stages of a qualifying endurance race on Saturday, when multiple cars were involved in a serious collision that immediately brought the event to a halt.
Race officials confirmed that the crash triggered a red flag, with emergency crews rushing to the scene as medical teams attempted to treat those involved.
Miettinen, 66, was transported to the circuit’s medical center after being extracted from his vehicle, but despite efforts to revive him, he was later pronounced dead.
Six other drivers were also checked by medical staff and taken to the hospital for precautionary examinations, though none of their injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
The race was ultimately suspended, with organizers confirming it would not resume on Saturday night and that further schedule changes would follow.
The crash occurred during a highly challenging section of the track, known for its speed and difficulty, and involved multiple cars in quick succession.
Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, who was present at the event, later posted a tribute expressing shock and offering condolences to Miettinen’s family, calling the incident a stark reminder of how dangerous motorsport can be.
Miettinen was a respected figure in endurance racing, regularly competing at the Nürburgring and known for his passion for the sport even later in life.
An investigation into the exact cause of the multi-car collision is now ongoing.
