Berlin Tempelhof Airport

The Tempelhof Airport Street Circuit transforms the concrete apron of Berlin's historic former airport into a unique motorsport venue. The circuit runs on the grounds of Tempelhof, positioned before one of the world's largest listed buildings - the monumental airport terminal. Berlin holds a special distinction as the only city to host a Formula E race in every season since the championship began, making Tempelhof the most consistent venue in the series.

Technical Characteristics

The current circuit layout, introduced for the 2024 season, measures 2.343 kilometers (1.460 miles) and contains 15 turns. Drivers navigate the track in an anti-clockwise direction. The most distinctive feature is the concrete slab surface, originally designed for aircraft operations. This abrasive concrete creates low grip levels and causes high tire wear, which presents significant challenges for both drivers and teams. Energy management and car control become critical on this demanding surface.

The 2024 revamp brought major changes to the circuit. The start/finish straight and pit lane moved to what was previously the back straight. The design removed the notorious "snail curve" that featured in earlier layouts. The new configuration includes longer straights and more technical elements. A lengthy left-hand bend spans turns 12, 13, and 14, featuring multiple apexes. Turns 3 and 4 are 90-degree angles. These modifications create a faster, more technical track with higher top speeds and increased overtaking opportunities. The mix of fast, medium, and slow-speed corners requires diverse car setup choices, testing driver skill and efficiency.

Historical Significance

Tempelhof Airport opened in 1927 and played crucial roles during World War II and the Cold War. The airport gained worldwide fame during the Berlin Airlift of 1948-49. Formula E brought electric racing to this historic location in 2015 with an inaugural layout of 2.469 kilometers and 17 turns. The venue served as a refugee shelter in 2016, causing the race to temporarily move to a street circuit on Karl-Marx-Allee. Racing returned to Tempelhof in 2017 with a revised 2.355-kilometer layout featuring 10 turns. This version included a section passing through the "Emotion" village, creating a tunnel effect.

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Tempelhof hosted an unprecedented six races in nine days to conclude the 2019-2020 season. The organizers used three different configurations, including reverse layouts and an extended version, to add variety to the compressed schedule. This demonstrated the circuit's remarkable flexibility and adaptability.

Modern Role and Spectator Experience

The Berlin Tempelhof circuit serves as a platform for zero-emission racing technology and electric vehicle innovation. The E-Prix transforms into a festival atmosphere, offering live music, food courts, driving simulators, and family-friendly activities. The event emphasizes sustainability while delivering entertainment. The 2024 circuit changes improved spectator views through new grandstand locations. Beyond racing, Tempelhof continues its transformation into a multifunctional space with event facilities, office areas, and public parks, representing Berlin's ongoing urban development.