After a lengthy red flag following a serious seven-car crash and barrier damage, Nürburgring race officials reported that Juha Miettinen (BMW 325i, #121) succumbed to his injuries after being treated in the nearby Medical Center.
Official statement from race control:
“During today’s first race of the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers, a serious accident involving seven competitors occurred in the early stages. Following the collision between several vehicles, race control immediately halted the race to allow for extensive recovery and rescue operations.
Despite the immediate arrival of emergency services, the paramedics were unable to save the driver involved, Juha Miettinen (BMW 325i, #121), after he had been extracted from the vehicle; the driver passed away at the Medical Centre after all attempts at resuscitation proved unsuccessful.
The race will not resume on Saturday evening. The thoughts of everyone involved in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring are with the bereaved family of Juha Miettinen.
A minute’s silence will be held in memory of the deceased motorsport competitor during the grid formation for Sunday’s race at 13:00.”
Juha Miettinen
Photo by: Juha Miettinen Instagram
Update 2:
Max Verstappen, posting to his personal Instagram stories, had this to share about the crash:
“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.
We want your opinion!
What would you like to see on Motorsport.com?
– The Motorsport.com Team