Off the calendar
As expected, after Belgian local government rejected a proposed ePrix in Elizabeth Park, the Brussels ePrix has been removed from the Formula E season three calendar, and replaced with a double-header race at Berlin’s Tempelhof Airport on June 10 and 11.
The airfield, home to the Berlin ePrix in the first season of the all-electric championship before it was relocated for season two, returns to Tempelhof, with an ‘all-new design’ that will be revealed on Monday, March 27, with ‘exciting, unique features that allow spectators to get closer to the action than ever before.’
Upgraded tickets
Formula E has revealed that the relocation will result in an ‘expanded Allianz eVillage’ with ‘fun and interactive features to keep all the family entertained.’ Fans who have already purchased tickets for the Karl-Marx-Allee location will see their tickets upgraded to a weekend ticket at Tempelhof, and given access to a pit walk on Saturday June 10.
Daniel Abt, driving for ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport, and one of three German drivers on the current grid, spoke to Motorsport.com about the news that he would enjoy two home races this season, saying: “For us as a German team with German partners and me as a German driver it is great news that we will have two home races this season. It is no secret that I loved the track around Karl-Marx-Allee a lot. But we had a great time in Tempelhof in season one and now we will put on a great 48-hour party for the fans in Berlin.”
Next stop, Mexico
It is understood that alternate locations were considered for the Brussels race, including Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, but a short-term switch at such a late date proved a sticking point. With the cancellation of Brussels and addition of a race in Berlin, the 2016-17 Formula E season remains at twelve races, with New York and Montreal hosting the season’s other double-header events in July.
The next race takes place in Mexico City on April 1.
