Stade Vélodrome is a major football stadium located in Marseille, France. It is the home stadium of Olympique de Marseille, one of the most successful and popular football clubs in France. The stadium is known for its passionate atmosphere during matches and is an iconic landmark in the city of Marseille.
Key facts about Stade Vélodrome:
History: Stade Vélodrome was originally built in 1937 as a cycling (vélo in French) stadium to host track cycling events. Over the years, it underwent several renovations and transformations to become a football stadium and has been the home ground of Olympique de Marseille since 1937.
Capacity: As of my last update, the stadium had a seating capacity of approximately 67,394 spectators, making it the second-largest stadium in France after the Stade de France.
Renovations: Stade Vélodrome has undergone significant renovations and expansions to modernize its facilities and increase its capacity. One of the most notable renovations was carried out in preparation for the UEFA Euro 2016, which was hosted by France. During this renovation, the stadium's exterior was revamped, and a new roof was installed to improve the spectator experience.
Architecture: The stadium's architecture is characterized by its bowl-shaped design, with steep stands that allow fans to have excellent views of the pitch from all parts of the stadium.
Hosted Events: Stade Vélodrome has hosted numerous important football matches, including domestic league fixtures, cup finals, and international matches. It has also been the venue for various UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League matches.
Olympique de Marseille Matches: Stade Vélodrome is the spiritual home of Olympique de Marseille, and it holds a special place in the hearts of the club's passionate supporters. The fans' fervor and passion create an electric atmosphere during matches, making it a formidable stadium for visiting teams.
Location: The stadium is located in the southern part of Marseille, making it easily accessible by public transport and car.
Stade Vélodrome represents the heart of football culture in Marseille, and its historical significance, large capacity, and passionate atmosphere during matches make it a revered landmark in French football.