Juha Miettinen killed in seven-car crash during 24hr Qualifiers at the Nurburgring.

Despite the efforts of doctors at the circuit's medical centre the 66-year-old succumbed to his injuries. Six other drivers involved in the crash were treated at the medical centre and local hospitals but it is understood that none are critically injured.

Miettinen, a Finn, had contested 56 rounds of the Nurburgring Langstrecken Serie since 2018, always at the wheel of a BMW. His 25 visits to the podium included five victories.

Interest in the event was raised due to the participation of four-time world champion Max Verstappen who is looking to to contest the 24 hour race at the Ring next month..

Ahead of the race - one of two qualifiers this weekend - Verstappen's car incurred a three-place grid drop after Lucas Auer made contact with a Porsche, forcing it into a wall.

Starting from ninth on the grid, Auer was at the wheel of the Mercedes AMG GT3 for the opening stint. Losing positions at the start he subsequently worked his way up to ninth.

By Lap 3 he was battling the sister Mercedes-AMG car, however shortly after the red flag was shown as a result of the seven car crash at the high-speed Klostertal, just ahead of the infamous Karussel.

"I'm shocked by what happened today," Verstappen posted on social media. "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."

A minute's silence will be held today ahead of the second qualifier.