Max Verstappen pays tribute to racing driver who died in horrific crash during event

Lewis Henderson
Sun, 19 Apr 2026 08:47:38 +0000

Max Verstappen has paid tribute to racing driver Juha Miettinen, who died in a horrific seven-car crash during an event at Germany's Nurburgring circuit.

Miettinen, aged 66, died following the incident at the first qualifying event for the Nurburgring 24 Hour Race.

The racing driver crashed around 25 minutes into the four-hour race, with Verstappen also competing.

The Dutchman, who was not involved in the clash, paid tribute on social media.

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He 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 have also paid tribute to Miettinen, with one saying: "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 and red-flagged as paramedics rushed to the scene, trying to save the 66-year-old.

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Miettinen passed away at the medical centre while the other six drivers were checked over.

Race control said: "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.

"Following the collision between several vehicles, race control immediately halted the race to allow for extensive recovery and rescue operations."

The statement continued: "Despite the immediate arrival of emergency services, the emergency medics were unable to save the driver involved, Juha Miettinen (BMW 325i, #121), after he had been extracted from the vehicle; the driver died at the Medical Centre after all attempts at resuscitation proved unsuccessful."

A minute's silence will be held in memory of Miettinen during the grid formation for Sunday's race.

The Nurburgring is renowned as one of motorsport's most dangerous circuits.

Three-time Formula One champion Niki Lauda suffered a near-fatal crash at the circuit in 1976, when his Ferrari burst into flames after a suspected mechanical failure.

Since 1928, a total of 70 competitors have lost their lives during official races on the course.

It is estimated that, during public sessions, there are typically between three and 12 deaths annually on the track.