Apr.20 (GMM) A fatal crash at the Nurburgring has cast a harsh spotlight on the risks of endurance racing – just as Max Verstappen continues to spend time at the track during the Formula 1 break.
Finnish driver Juha Miettinen, 66, died after a multi-car incident during an NLS race at the Nordschleife, reportedly triggered by fluid on the track at the high-speed Klostertal section.
Verstappen’s teammate Lucas Auer was circulating in their Red Bull-livered Mercedes AMG at the time.
“There was a very big crash,” driver Misha Charoudin told Viaplay.
“Someone left fluid behind and I think six or seven cars crashed into each other. “You approach that stretch at 220 kilometres-per-hour and if you can’t brake…”
The FIA reacted with a statement of condolence.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends and everyone involved in the event.”
Verstappen, who was in the pits at the time of the incident, also responded.
“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,” he wrote on Instagram.
The incident inevitably raises questions about Red Bull allowing its star driver to pursue such high-risk activities away from Formula 1.
However, GPDA chairman Alexander Wurz says Verstappen is far from alone in wanting to explore endurance racing.
“Max isn’t alone in his newfound passion for the Nurburgring and endurance racing – Alonso has already set an example,” he told Speed Week.
“Le Mans is interesting and desirable for everyone. I think it’s great that he has the opportunity to race endurance races in GT.
“I suspect Max isn’t alone in this. Several of his colleagues probably want the same thing.”
Indeed, George Russell admitted he understands the appeal – even as speculation continues about Verstappen’s long-term F1 future.
“I can understand why driving on the Nordschleife puts a huge smile on his face,” he said.
“I’ve done hundreds of laps in the simulator and I’d love to have the chance to race there someday, but my goal now is to be Formula 1 world champion.
“If I had four titles already, I’d probably be doing the same thing. He’s at a different stage of his career. I think you’d understand if he left and you’d understand if he stayed.”
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES