Verstappen drops out of top 20 in Qualifying Race 2 amid tricky conditions

On a damp track that gradually improved over the session, the four-time world champion showed impressive finesse at the wheel of his Mercedes-AMG GT3, setting the fastest time.

The Dutchman took over from team-mate Lucas Auer around the midway point of the session, dipping below the nine-minute mark and going a full 11 seconds quicker than Engel, who was running second at the time.

With 15 minutes remaining, the first cars switched to slick tyres, allowing drivers to significantly lower their lap times.

Conditions steadily improved as the session went on, with others gradually closing in on Verstappen’s time, while he began to slip down the order lap after lap.

Verstappen opted not to return to the track for a final flying lap on slicks, slipping out of the top 10 and ultimately finishing 27th. Pole ultimately went to Krognes in the Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3, who stopped the clock at 8:18.515.

Below are the full results.

Before heading out on track this morning, the four-time world champion took to social media on Saturday evening to share his reaction to the tragic events, admitting he was deeply shaken by the news.

One of the key protagonists of the Nürburgring weekend as he pushes to secure an early place in May’s 24 Hours, he also acknowledged how such moments highlight the inherent dangers of the sport, while sending his condolences to Miettinen’s family and loved ones.