In a method for controlling an inlet valve of an internal combustion engine having at least one cylinder with at least a first inlet valve and a second inlet valve, wherein the closing time of the first inlet valve is adjustable and the first inlet valve is so controlled that, at a first engine speed, the first inlet valve is closed before the closing of the second inlet valve and, at a second engine speed which is higher than the first engine speed, the first inlet valve is closed after the closing time of the second inlet valve.