A significant explosion occurred in the paddock area of the Nürburgring during a test drive, injuring 22 people, four of whom sustained serious injuries.

The incident, believed to be caused by the explosion of a compressed air cylinder behind a box, took place shortly after 6 PM on the eve of the six-hour ADAC Ruhr-Pokal race.

Emergency services, including four rescue helicopters, were deployed to the scene, and the injured were transported to hospitals.

Despite the explosion, the race is set to proceed as planned, with teams and drivers given the option to participate.

Investigations into the cause of the explosion are ongoing, with authorities securing the area around box 27 where the incident occurred.