Max Verstappen: Shocked by what happened to Juha Miettinen, my heart felt condolences to his family
Le Mans, WEC & DTMSunday, 19 April 2026 at 12:15
Four time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen reacted to the fatal Nürburgring crash that claimed the life of race driver Juha Miettinen, shocked by the tragedy during Race 1 of the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers he delivered his condolences to the family.
The incident occurred during the opening phase of the race when a seven car crash at the fast Klostertal section triggered an immediate red flag. Miettinen, a 66-year-old Nürburgring regular, was fatally injured in the collision despite rapid intervention from medical teams.
The race was subsequently cancelled, with the motorsport community left dealing with the aftermath of one of the most serious incidents at the Nordschleife in recent years.
Verstappen, who was competing during the weekend, responded with a message on his official platform: “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. On behalf of Verstappen.com, we wish everyone affected strength during this difficult time.”
All of us at GRANDPRIX247 are shocked by the news of Juha's passing, tragically emphasising how dangerous motorsport always will be. To his immediate family and friends we are united in wishing them strength and comfort in this dark time.
Miettinen remembered as Nürburgring endurance regular
Juha Miettinen was a long time endurance racing driver with deep ties to Nürburgring competition, particularly within the Langstrecken Serie and 24 hour events.
The crash that claimed his life involved seven cars after a fluid leak on the racing line caused a sudden loss of grip at high speed. Multiple drivers were caught out in quick succession, leaving several cars heavily damaged and the circuit blocked.
While six other drivers were taken to the Medical Center and nearby hospitals for precautionary checks, none were reported to be in life threatening condition.
The race was stopped immediately and never resumed, with officials later confirming the cancellation following the scale of the incident and the time required for recovery operations.
The fatal incident has once again highlighted the inherent risks of endurance racing on the Nordschleife, where high speeds, traffic and narrow margins combine to create one of motorsport’s most challenging environments.
A minute of silence is set to be observed ahead of Sunday’s race, as the paddock reflects on the loss of a respected competitor and the impact of a tragedy that has shaken the Nürburgring community.
Verstappen’s presence had drawn significant attention to the event, but the focus shifted entirely following the crash and its consequences. The Red Bull F1 driver will be in action today, for the second Qualifier.
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