Max Verstappen shared an emotional message after the death of Juha Miettinen following a major crash at the Nurburgring.
The fatal incident occurred during the ADAC 24h Nurburgring Qualifiers, where a seven-car pile-up forced officials to stop the race.
Miettinen's passing was announced hours after the crash.
"During the first race of the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers (18 April 2026), a serious accident involving seven competitors occurred in the early stages of the race," officials said in a statement.
"Following the collision involving 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); the driver died in the Medical Centre after all attempts at resuscitation proved unsuccessful.
Authorities, however, added that all other drivers involved in the crash escaped uninjured. Max Verstappen was not hurt.
"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."
Verstappen wrote in a post on his Instagram story, "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," he added.
Organizers confirmed the race would not resume on Saturday evening following the tragedy.
