In this article we will examine the importance of Uber Arena in the current context. Uber Arena has been the subject of debate and analysis in various fields, whether in politics, technology, science or culture. Its relevance is undeniable, as it impacts people's daily lives and society as a whole. Over time, Uber Arena has evolved, adapting to the changes and challenges that arise, which leads us to reflect on its role in the contemporary world. In this sense, we intend to explore the different facets of Uber Arena, analyzing its implications and proposing possible solutions or strategies to face the challenges it poses.
Multipurpose indoor arena in Berlin, Germany
Uber Arena
Former names
O2 World (2008–2015) Mercedes-Benz Arena (2015–2024)
The Uber Arena, previously known under several other names, is a multipurpose indoor arena in the Friedrichshain neighborhood of Berlin, Germany, which opened in 2008. The arena became known as Uber Arena following a long-term deal with venue operators AEG Europe in 2024.
With a capacity of 17,000 people, it is home to the Eisbären Berlin ice hockey club and the Alba Berlin basketball team, and is used for other ice hockey, basketball and handball matches as well as concerts.
The arena hosted the 2008–09 Euroleague Final Four, European professional basketball club competition. The arena was one of the most prominent elements of the Mediaspree urban redevelopment project, quickly gaining emblematic status in the debates surrounding the project's impact. The arena hosted the 2022 Premier League Darts final on 13 June 2022.
Naming rights
In 2015, German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz reached a deal with the arena management to rename the venue Mercedes-Benz Arena Berlin for twenty years. Between 2008 and 2015, the arena was known as O2 World Berlin (German:[ɔʊˈtuːˌvœːɐ̯lt]) due to sponsorship contract with Telefónica Germany, a telecommunications company.
In March 2024, the arena became known as the Uber Arena, following a long-term deal with venue operators AEG Europe. The adjacent venue rebranded from the Verti Music Hall to the Uber Eats Music Hall, and the entertainment quarter rebranded from Mercedes Platz to Uber Platz.
Notable events
The first band to play at the Mercedes-Benz Arena was Metallica on 12 September 2008.
Depeche Mode performed at the stadium three times: the first one was on 9 January 2010 during their Tour of the Universe. The second and the third were on 25 and 27 November 2013 during their Delta Machine Tour, in front of a total sold-out crowd of 28,332 people. The 2013 shows were filmed and recorded for the group's live album and concert film Live in Berlin.
Irish-American dancer and musician Michael Flatley reprised his role as Lord of the Dance on 6 December 2010 during the Return of Michael Flatley As Lord of the Dance tour. A few scenes from the 3D concert film Lord of the Dance 3D, were filmed in the during the performance in the arena alongside the O2 London and O2 Dublin. The film was released on DVD and Blu-ray under the title Michael Flatley Returns As Lord of the Dance in 2011. A 3D version was released only in Blu-ray in late 2011.
In October 2013, the artist Jakob Kupfer transformed the LED facade of the o2 World Berlin into a giant art installation.