June 20, 2026 | Airfield Heidelberg, Germany
Your Starting Spot at the StaplerCup and Young Talents Qualifier
Heidelberg Is Calling: Your Path to the StaplerCup Finals Starts Here
Show what you’ve got behind the wheel: on June 20, 2026, the StaplerCup Qualifier and Young Talents Qualifier are taking over the Airfield Heidelberg (Germany) – with coveted starting spots for the StaplerCup Finals in Aschaffenburg (Germany) up for grabs!
Whether you’re coming from right nearby, from other parts of Germany, or from abroad: every driver with a valid forklift operator certification can enter. And for talents between 18 and 25, we’ve even got a dedicated ranking of your own. You’ll run an exciting course right in the heart of the Linde Logistics Campus – take on the best and lock in your spot in the finals.
The Heidelberg Competitions at a Glance
StaplerCup Qualifier
At the StaplerCup Qualifier in Heidelberg, serious experience meets pure ambition. The driver who handles the forks cleanest and keeps a cool head against the clock holds the winning hand. A competition for real doers – with one clear goal: earning a spot at the StaplerCup Finals 2026.
- Who can enter: All drivers with a valid forklift operator certification
- When: June 20, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Where: Airfield Heidelberg, 69123 Heidelberg (parking is right in front of the venue)
- Entry: Free of charge – international drivers very welcome!
- Format: 3 rounds on 3 different courses. The field narrows by ranking after each round
- Prizes: Prize money up to €500 for the top finishers
- The goal: A direct ticket to the StaplerCup Finals in Aschaffenburg, Germany (October 22–24, 2026)
StaplerCup Qualifier - Young Talents
The next generation is flooring it. In the Young Talents ranking for participants aged 18 to 25, the spotlight belongs to the new wave of drivers. If you’re at the start of your career and showing real finesse on the controls, this is your perfect way into the StaplerCup world. Going head-to-head with drivers your own age, you’re not just racing for your first real prize money – you’ve got a huge shot at stepping straight into the footsteps of the all-time Forkliftheroes.
- Who can enter: Young talents ages 18–25 (separate ranking) with a valid forklift license
- When: June 20, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Where: Airfield Heidelberg, 69123 Heidelberg (parking is right in front of the venue)
- Entry: Free of charge – international Young Talents welcome
- Prizes: Prize money up to €500 for the top finishers
- The goal: The top 3 earn a direct ticket to the StaplerCup Finals in Aschaffenburg, Germany (October 22–24, 2026)
The Heidelberg Event: More than just a Competition!
FAQ
Who can enter the competitions?
Anyone with a valid forklift operator certification. Whether you’re coming from right nearby, from elsewhere in Germany, or from abroad – everyone’s welcome. For the Young Talents ranking, you need to be between 18 and 25 on the day of the competition. Employees of Linde Material Handling, KION, and Linde MH network partners are not eligible (see the FAQ below).
Is there an entry fee or admission charge?
No – both driver registration and spectator admission are completely free.
How do I register as a driver?
Advance registration through our online registration tool is required. Register now
What’s up for grabs?
Beyond the glory, trophies, and certificates, the top three finishers in each competition take home real prize money (1st place: €500, 2nd place: €200, 3rd place: €100). The big one: the top drivers also qualify for the grand StaplerCup Finals in Aschaffenburg, Germany (October 22–24, 2026).
Is the event family- and spectator-friendly?
Absolutely. The whole event runs under the motto “Families Welcome.” On top of the action on the course, there’s a big Kids Zone (with face painting, airbrush tattoos, and more), great food at PLAZA, and behind-the-scenes tech showcases in the big Linde Logistics Campus tent.
Is there parking and food on-site?
Yes – plenty of parking is available right at Airfield Heidelberg, and food service is on PLAZA.
Are employees of Linde Material Handling, the KION Group, or network partners eligible to compete?
No. To keep the competition fair and independent for every driver in the field, employees of Linde MH, the KION Group, and network partners are not eligible to compete. As spectators and fans, of course, you’re very welcome.