Multiple Injured in Nürburgring Paddock Accident

Practice for the ADAC Ruhr Cup has been stopped after an accident involving an exploding pressurized cylinder, which has caused multiple injuries.

One-hundred and 26 cars were due to take part in Saturday’s six-hour race, which forms the fourth round of the NLS season.

According to a statement issued by the Nürburgring, practice running for the event has been stopped after a pressurized cylinder exploded in the paddock.

“During the test and practice runs ahead of the fourth round of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS), an explosion occurred shortly after 6 p.m. behind a pit in the Grand Prix paddock area,” a statement from the series read.

“Preliminary findings suggest that the explosion was caused by a pressure cylinder.

“Extensive emergency personnel on site immediately initiated appropriate first measures and secured the accident scene. The test run was immediately interrupted.

“Initial reports indicate that there are several injured individuals who, after receiving immediate care at the Nürburgring Medical Center, were transported by rescue helicopter to nearby hospitals.

“The police are investigating the scene, as is customary in such situations. Further information will follow.”

Koblenz police outlined in a statement issued on Friday evening that 22 people were injured in the accident, with four individuals said to have suffered serious injuries.

Race organizers VLN, meanwhile, announced late Friday that the race will go ahead as planned.

“An unfortunate industrial accident occurred during the test and we are all deeply shocked and our thoughts are with those affected,” said VLN boss Mike Jäger.

“However, the incident is not directly related to the event, so we have decided together with our teams to hold the event.”

This article was updated at Friday 5:23 p.m. EDT with information that the race will go ahead as planned and Saturday at 3:43 a.m. EDT with additional information provided by Koblenz police