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Berlin has been a staple of the Formula E calendar for the past ten seasons, hosting 18 races over two different locations. The Tempelhof Airport Street Circuit in the German capital is an iconic piece of the all-electric championship’s history, and is ready to welcome Formula E again this weekend.
TICKETS: Come and join us for the SUN MINIMEAL 2024 Berlin E-Prix
The double-header SUN MINIMEAL Berlin E-Prix event on 11 and 12 May will bring with it lots of change. Not only is it a new circuit layout, but there will also be different driver line-up pairings across the grid.
One team which has undergone a driver swap in Berlin is ABT CUPRA. The team, who are celebrating a home race in Germany, will be bringing in Kelvin van der Linde for both Rounds 9 and 10 alongside Lucas di Grassi.
South African-born van der Linde will replace regular driver Nico Mueller, with the Swiss competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship that same weekend. The 27-year-old has driven in Formula E before, coming to the rescue for ABT CUPRA when Robin Frijns broke his hand at the start of Season 9.
“It’s exciting to be back with the Formula E team for a weekend,” Kelvin van der Linde said about his return to electric racing. “Nico is having a strong season, but of course I will do my best to represent him worthily. I have a good feeling.
“I’ve already prepared myself in the simulator, for the track, but also for energy management and the best strategy. The new layout is a typical Formula E circuit with long straights, where we are sure to see some exciting racing.”
The track layout has had some significant changes for 2024. The new 2.343km layout features 15 turns and will run anti-clockwise on both occasions.
CIRCUIT: Berlin track layout gets fresh look for Season 10
On the other side of the garage, it’s business as usual for Season 3 champion Lucas di Grassi.
“Berlin is like a third home race for me, after São Paulo and Monaco,” he added. “The event in Germany’s capital is also very important for my team, as many guests, sponsors, partners and friends will be here. Even though the track layout is new this year, the very special atmosphere on the track remains the same. I’ve already had some fantastic moments in Berlin, as well as a few defeats – we’ve prepared ourselves in the best possible way to add another great experience or two.”
It’s set to be a busy weekend for the home team, who along with TAG Heuer Porsche will be feeling the pressure as well as extra support from the home crowds and media. Last season, ABT CUPRA made headlines when their drivers Mueller and Frijns put both cars on the front row in wet and rainy conditions.
“The anticipation for our home race in Berlin, where we have already celebrated so many successes, is of course great,” Thomas Biermaier, ABT CEO and Team Principal, said ahead of the weekend.
FEATURE: Six things to look forward to in Berlin
“But also the tension, because it will be a weekend full of challenges: two days with a full schedule, many guests, a new track layout, a new driver in Kelvin alongside Lucas and as an encore a rookie test with two interesting drivers on Monday. We want to stay cool, have two smooth race days and take home as many points as possible.”
Mueller will be present in the garage to offer advice and support on the Sunday, as FIA regulations prevent him and others from competing in Round 10, with the two races being considered part of the same event.
SCHEDULE: Where, when and how to watch or stream the 2024 SUN MINIMEAL Berlin E-Prix
The 2024 SUN MINIMEAL Berlin E-Prix gets underway on Friday 10 May with Free Practice 1 at 17:00 local time.
Track action for the first day of the double-header starts on Saturday 11 May with Free Practice 2 at 08:00 local. Qualifying follows at 10:40 local time with lights out for Round 9 scheduled at 15:00 local/13:00 UTC.
Following this, Sunday’s action starts with Free Practice 3 at 08:00, followed by Round 10 qualifying and race at 10:20 and 15:00 local time respectively.