A serious explosion occurred in the paddock during the test session ahead of this weekend’s six-hour Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie race.
Several people were injured when a compressed air cylinder exploded during the final stages of pre-race testing – which was halted immediately.
The cylinder was being filled when the explosion occurred. Numerous ambulances and several rescue helicopters were dispatched to respond to the emergency.
In the evening, the atmosphere in the paddock – which was closed by the police – was disturbing and even passers-by needed assistance.
Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie paddock after the explosion
Photo by: Sonke Brederlow
“During the test session preceding NLS4, shortly after 18:00 an explosion occurred behind a box in the paddock area which, according to initial investigations, was caused by a compressed air cylinder,” reads an official statement issued by the series.
“A large number of rescuers present on the scene immediately initiated appropriate measures and secured the scene of the accident. The session was immediately suspended.”
“According to initial findings, there are several injured people who were transported to nearby hospitals by rescue helicopter after receiving immediate treatment at the Nurburgring Medical Center.”
“Police are investigating the scene, as is standard procedure in such a situation. Further information will be released shortly.”
Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie paddock after the explosion
Photo by: Sonke Brederlow
At 11pm on Friday night, championship officials decided to continue with this weekend’s race. The decision was made in coordination with the ILN team association.
“An unfortunate accident at work occurred during the test. We are all deeply shocked and our thoughts are with those affected,” said VLN chief Mike Jäger.
“However, the incident is not directly related to the event, so we have decided, together with our teams, to continue with the race.”
Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie paddock after the explosion
Photo by: Sonke Brederlow
A police report states: “The police inform us that, at this time, a total of 22 people have been injured in the explosion. One person has sustained very serious injuries, while three others have sustained serious injuries. The others have sustained minor injuries, including blast trauma.”
“Pending further investigation, it is likely that the cause of the accident was the explosion of a pressurized cylinder behind a box in the paddock area. As usual, after accidents of this type, the Criminal Investigation Department has launched an investigation.”
The 6h ADAC Ruhr-Pokal-Rennen is one of the highlights of the 2024 NLS season, after the 12h event was awarded to rival NES over the winter.
With the NES having discontinued all races for 2024, the 6h event is the highlight of the Nürburgring endurance calendar, after the iconic 24h in May, and 126 cars are on the provisional entry list.
#NLS #Gas #cylinder #explodes #Nurburgring #paddock #injured #hospital
