FIA lead statements on tragic death of Juha Miettinen

The FIA, amongst other teams and bodies, has issued a statement after racing driver Juha Miettinen was killed during the 24 Hours of Nurburgring Qualifiers Race 1 at the Nordschleife.

The 66-year-old was a regular at the circuit and was involved in the seven-car crash that occurred 25 minutes into the four-hour race, at 17:55 local time.

The event was soon red-flagged and did not resume. The German driver was confirmed dead in a press conference held at 20:00 local time, with race control sharing some of the details of the incident.

The motorsport governing body posted on social media: "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."

Miettinen was competing in the #121 BMW 325i. BMW M Motorsport replied to the Nurburgring's social media confirmation of the death.

"Heartbreaking news from the Nürburgring. We are shocked and deeply saddened by the fatal accident of Juha Miettinen," the response said.

"We lost a member of the BMW racing family under tragic circumstances. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."

Mercedes also shared their condolences, posting: "We are heartbroken & deeply saddened by the tragic events at today's 24H Nürburgring qualifiers.

"Our thoughts & heartfelt condolences are with the family and loved ones of Juha Miettinen.

"Today, more than ever, we stand together as a motorsport community, supporting each other as best we can."

RacingNews365 sends its deepest condolences to the friends and family of Juha Miettinen at this sad time.