Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has expressed his deep shock following the tragic death of 66-year-old driver Juha Miettinen during Saturday’s NLS4 race at the Nurburgring. The incident, which occurred less than 30 minutes into the four-hour endurance event, has left the motorsport community in mourning.
Verstappen was competing at the iconic German circuit as part of his preparations for next month’s 24 Hours of Nurburgring. He was not behind the wheel when the crash happened; his Mercedes teammate Lucas Auer was driving their car at the time. The race was immediately red-flagged after a devastating seven-car pileup at Klostertal, the tight hairpin before the Karussell corner.
More than two hours after the collision, race organizers confirmed the worst: Juha Miettinen, driver of the #121 Keeevin BMW 235i, had succumbed to his injuries at the track’s medical centre. Despite rapid intervention from emergency crews and extensive resuscitation efforts, he could not be saved.
Later that evening, Verstappen broke his silence on social media with a heartfelt message. “Shocked by what happened today,” he wrote. “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.”
The Dutch driver’s words carried extra weight given his recent comments about the Nurburgring Nordschleife. Just weeks prior, Verstappen had spoken openly about the dangers of the 12.9-mile “Green Hell,” a circuit long considered too hazardous for modern Formula 1. Known for its blind crests, narrow run-off, and unpredictable weather, the Nordschleife demands absolute respect from even the most experienced drivers.
Saturday’s tragedy underscored those risks. While the six other drivers involved in the crash escaped without life-threatening injuries, Miettinen’s death was a stark reminder that motorsport’s margin for error remains razor-thin, especially in multi-class endurance racing where speed differentials and traffic are constant factors.
Race control cancelled the remainder of Saturday’s event out of respect and due to barrier damage. A minute’s silence was scheduled for Sunday’s grid formation to honor Miettinen, a veteran competitor who embodied the passion and commitment that defines the Nurburgring paddock.
For Verstappen, the weekend was meant to be about seat time and preparation away from the F1 spotlight. Instead, it became a sobering moment of reflection. His tribute echoed the sentiment felt across the racing world: love for the sport is inseparable from an awareness of its danger.
As tributes continue to pour in, the focus now turns to supporting Miettinen’s family and ensuring lessons are learned. The Nurburgring will race again, but Saturday’s loss will linger in every lap turned at the Green Hell.