Do you have what it takes to be a race car driver? Well. If you want to test your skills, the Hockenheimring is the place for you. Whether you decide to take part in solo-driving experiences or watch one of the many motor races, servicemembers and their families will enjoy the thrill of driving like never before.

History

Initially created for the town of Hockenheim, Ernst Christ’s rink has become world-renowned. Since its 1930 opening, the Hockenheimring’s track and seating arena has been remodeled numerous times. These reconfigurations have created today’s complex, which can entertain up to 120,000 spectators at a time!

Triangular course: After obtaining support, construction for Hockenheim’s first triangular rink began on March 23, 1932. After two months of building, the track hosted its first motorcycle race on May 23. The opening of this rink greatly impacted the town of Hockenheim and the world of racing.

Oval course: Once the rink turned six, the foundation decided to do a little remodeling. This revamping resulted in the rink’s Ostkurve or oval rink. The Ostkurve was not only wider than the original track, but it was also safer. The increased width of the track enabled racers to travel at higher speeds and also provided spectators with better views of the course.

Obeying the law: In the early 1960s, Hockenheimring got another makeover. This reconfiguration was brought on because of the town’s Mannheim-Walldorf motorway. The new motorway rearranged the layout of the road to Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Walldorf and Heilbronn. This highway’s system circled the rink, which caused Christ to come up with a new track. Christ’s system incorporated a new Motodrom, which provided a better venue for guests and competitors.

Man vs. nature: Although the updated rink provided a spacious environment for racers and spectators, the state of the path route was problematic. At the time, the track dipped in the woods, which made it difficult for guests to observe the races. To eliminate this issue, the Hockenheimring Besitz company put in a request for funding to expand the track. After gaining approval, construction began. Despite being two kilometers shorter than the original, Hockenheimring has continued to entertain spectators and provide a safe driving atmosphere for racers.

Events

Each year Hockenheimring hosts a variety of racing events like the 1000 km, motorcycle and public performance races.

The need for speed: During NitrOlympX, spectators experience the rush of dragsters hitting speeds up to 500 km/h. Once the afternoon events are over, stick around for the Saturday night show. During the event, drivers perform various stunts and ignite the sky with colorful flames from their tires.

The oldies: Travel back in time during the annual Hockenheimring Classic event, happening each September. Throughout the afternoon, spectators can observe old motorcycles and sidecars race along the track. After the show, make sure to stop by and get autographs from the drivers.

Race’n’Roll: Test your driving skills on these days. An experienced trainer is on-site, and you can drive the car of your dreams. Experience levels vary from “light” to “Xtreme”

Fit on Track: A couple of times a year, the track is open to those who want to walk, jog, bike, hand-bike and in-line skate on the track.

GLÜCKSGEFÜHLE Festival: This is not only a place to race, but to rock out! This music festival is the largest in Germany. In September 2025, artists include the Black Eyed Peas, Apache 207 and Neelix.

Check out and purchase your tickets for upcoming events on www.hockenheimring.de.

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