Juha Miettinen passes away in crash during NLS qualifiers

Finnish racing driver Juha Miettinen sadly passed away on Saturday 18th April 2026, following a 7 car collision during qualifiers for the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS). In the immediate aftermath, the session was red flagged for an hour, before being suspended when the severity of the crash was clear. Emergency services arrived immediately, with the other 6 drivers being taken to hospital, with no life-threatening injuries. However despite their best efforts, the medics were unable to save Miettinen, who died at the medial centre after all attempts at resuscitation were unsuccessful. 

The series has recently gathered much media attention with Max Verstappen's participation. He wrote on his Instagram "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."

Before the race on Sunday, a minute of silence was held in his honour. Juha was a passionate racer, who will always be remembered.