How a Tramdrivers World Championship Gets on Track
Kai Schubert / Wiener Linien Newsroom 12.08.2025
Reading time: 5 Min.
In exactly one month, Vienna will become the center of public transport. Valerie Simons (left), Michaela “Mimi” Plank (right), and Herwig Langer (center) are the event team behind the Tramdrivers World Championship, ensuring with organizational talent and dedication that everything runs smoothly on September 13. But that’s not all - they are also coordinating the "Öffi-Fest", the Public Transport Festival. Two events in one day - with one goal: an unforgettable experience.
The Challenge of a Mega Event
“At the beginning, there was an idea that we kept developing,” says Herwig. The very first Tramdrivers World Championship was to be put on track. The requirements? It had to take place in Vienna, and it had to be international—a step that not only opened new dimensions but also brought special challenges. But with a strong team and the support of numerous partners, the event format was refined and planning could finally begin.
“What started out as just a vague idea has now become one of the biggest events of the year,” says Valerie. “The effort is huge, but the team always has everything under control.”
Experiencing Public Transport Up Close at the "Öffi-Fest"
“The Rathausplatz is the ideal stage to showcase what our 9.500 Wiener Linien colleagues achieve every day,” says Valerie. At interactive stations (e.g., the tram simulator, the track construction station, and much more), visitors can get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Wiener Linien. A wide variety of culinary offerings and a children’s program (bouncy castle, ball pit, arts-and-crafts station, and more) make the day an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
With around 50,000 visitors and 2,000 colleagues, safety is the top priority. “We’ve developed a comprehensive safety concept,” says Herwig. “But we also have a responsibility to meet visitors' expectations.”
Sustainability is also an important issue. “We adhere to the EcoEvent criteria,” adds Valerie. “That means we avoid waste and reuse materials.”
The Countdown Is On: The First Tramdrivers World Championship on September 13, 20205
In just a few weeks, it will finally happen. “We’re especially looking forward to the atmosphere when everything is running smoothly and the visitors are having fun,” say Herwig, Mimi, and Valerie in unison.
The Tramdrivers World Championship is more than just an event – it’s a prime example of teamwork, international cooperation, and sustainable event planning. Valerie, Mimi, and Herwig have created a unique event that will become an unforgettable experience for all in Vienna on September 13. Entrance is free!
