FIA Official Statement After Fatal Nürburgring Crash
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has released a solemn statement following the death of racing driver Juha Miettinen, who was killed in a serious multi-car crash during the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers on Saturday evening.
The incident occurred roughly 25 minutes into the four-hour qualifying race at the notoriously demanding Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit, involving seven cars in a high-speed collision. Emergency crews arrived immediately, but despite efforts to save the driver Miettinen, aged 66, he later died at the on-site medical centre.
In its statement, the FIA said:
“The FIA is sad to learn of the passing of Juha Miettinen following an incident in today’s first race of the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers. Our thoughts are with his family and friends and everyone involved in the event.
The governing body did not organise the event itself but is involved in broader safety and regulatory oversight in motorsport. The FIA’s message underscored the deep loss felt across the racing community.
Race officials confirmed that the other six drivers involved were taken to the medical centre and nearby hospitals for precautionary checks, with none reported in life-threatening condition. The qualifying event was abandoned following the crash.
Tributes poured in from across the motorsport world, including from four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, who described the tragedy as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in the sport.
A minute’s silence is expected to be held in Miettinen’s memory ahead of Sunday’s scheduled racing action at the circuit.