Juha Miettinen died following a major crash during the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) race in Germany on Saturday. The fatal incident occurred early in the race and involved seven vehicles, prompting officials to stop proceedings immediately.
“During the first race of the ADAC 24h Nurburgring Qualifiers (18 April 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,” read the statement from the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nurburgring.
The race was initially red-flagged and later officially suspended. Among the drivers was four-time Formula 1 winner Max Verstappen. He was, however, not injured.
“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.
“The other six drivers involved were taken to the Medical Centre and nearby hospitals for precautionary examinations. None of the injured are in a life-threatening condition,” officials said.
Juha Miettinen’s last Instagram post
In his final Instagram post, just hours before the crash. Miettinen wrote: “Ready for the N24H Qually races. Two races in two days. The first one into the night. The second one way too early in the morning, just so you get a taste of that Nürburgring 24H race feeling…”
He shared a video of his car.
“I will miss you dearly 😢. For many years, you were a role model and a good friend to me. We shared some great times on the track, and you always helped me never to lose my respect for the Nordschleife. I am proud to have been your friend; I will never forget you!” one person wrote in the comment section.
“Rest in Peace Juha. Enjoy this final race and win it, for all your family. See you in heaven. ❤️😪” another one added.
Verstappen has not issued a statement yet.
Tribute planned
Organizers confirmed that racing would not resume on Saturday evening, with plans to honor Miettinen before the next session. A minute’s silence will be held during Sunday’s grid formation in remembrance of the driver.
