The fatal accident happened around 25 minutes into the first qualifying session for the Nürburgring 24 Hours. Rescue personnel arrived quickly at the scene but could not save Miettinen's life; he died at the medical centre after unsuccessful resuscitation attempts. The crash occurred on the Nordschleife section of the Nürburgring, a challenging and historic part of the circuit known for its demanding layout.
Juha Miettinen, who was 66 years old, drove a BMW 325i with car number 121 and described himself as an amateur driver. His death marks the first fatality during a racing event on the Nordschleife since 2013, highlighting the rarity of such tragic incidents at this venue.
None of the other six injured drivers suffered life-threatening injuries. Swedish driver Siri Hökfelt, 20, was among those injured in the crash. One driver has been taken to hospital by helicopter with pain in his back and neck, according to race officials.
She called me and said she was okay. She was taken by helicopter to a hospital for observation.
Race control halted the qualifying session and red-flagged the event immediately after the accident. Officials issued a statement describing the accident and confirming Miettinen's death, while also noting that several injured drivers are being attended to after a massive crash.
The cause of the crash is unclear, according to official sources. A massive seven-car pileup possibly caused by spilled oil on the track occurred, though investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances.
Formula 1 star Max Verstappen was scheduled to participate in the qualifying but did not get the opportunity because the event was halted; he was not involved in the accident. Verstappen commented on the tragedy on Instagram, expressing shock and condolences to the families affected.
She is doing well under the circumstances.
Siri Hökfelt's father, Per Hökfelt, stated she called him to say she was okay and was taken by helicopter to a hospital for observation, providing some relief amid the distressing situation.
The drivers of cars number 27 and 992 are believed to be okay, with the former bruised from the crash, as reported by race officials.
It is unclear if and when the race may resume. There is one more qualifier before the Nürburgring 24 Hours, scheduled for Sunday, April 19, adding uncertainty to the event's schedule.
The race would not resume on Saturday evening, and a minute's silence would be held in memory of Miettinen during Sunday's grid formation, as announced by race organizers.