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Doosan Arena
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Doosan Arena, Czech Republic 2–1 Iceland, 2014

Key Information

Doosan Arena

Doosan Arena, previously known as Stadion města Plzně (Plzeň City Stadium), is a football stadium in Plzeň, Czech Republic. It is located in Štrunc Park, near the confluence of the Mže and Radbuza rivers. The stadium is the home ground of FC Viktoria Plzeň. The stadium holds 11,700 people. It is also known as Stadion ve Štruncových sadech (Stadium in Štrunc Park), named after Emil Štrunc, a former regional chieftain of the Sokol Movement (some people incorrectly think it is named after a famous local footballer Stanislav Štrunc).[citation needed]

History

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The stadium was opened in 1955 for the regional Spartakiad. After various construction enlargements, its capacity was 35,000 people, 7,600 of which were seated. In 2002–03 it underwent reconstruction to comply with the needs of football association and the capacity lowered significantly to 7,425 people.[3]

2011 reconstruction

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In April 2011, work costing approximately 360 million Czech koruna got under way to modernise the stadium in line with UEFA criteria.[4] While the reconstruction was in progress, the capacity of the stadium was reduced to 3,500 spectators.[5] At the end of August 2011, part of the 2011 reconstruction had finished, leaving the stadium with a new capacity of around 8,500.[6] In December 2011, the reconstruction was finished with a resultant capacity of almost 12,000.[7]

In 2011, Plzeň played in the 2011–12 UEFA Champions League group stage. However, home matches were played at Synot Tip Arena in Prague due to the reconstruction. In January 2012, the stadium was approved for use in Plzeň's 2011–12 UEFA Europa League match with Schalke 04.[8]

Average attendance

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  • 1993/94 – 5,774
  • 1994/95 – 4,573
  • 1995/96 – 3,441
  • 1996/97 – 4,626
  • 1997/98 – 3,819
  • 1998/99 – 4,033
  • 2000/01 – 3,073
  • 2003/04 – 3,622
  • 2005/06 – 4,118
  • 2006/07 – 4,836
  • 2007/08 – 3,828
  • 2008/09 – 4,005
  • 2009/10 – 3,629
  • 2010/11 – 6,415
  • 2011/12 – 7,009
  • 2012/13 – 10,046
  • 2013/14 – 10,089
  • 2014/15 – 10,868
  • 2015/16 – 10,618
  • 2016/17 – 10,040
  • 2017/18 – 9,576
  • 2018/19 – 9,021
  • 2019/20 – 7,732
  • 2020/21 – 2,698
  • 2021/22 – 6,430
  • 2022/23 – 8,779
  • 2023/24 – 9,030
  • 2024/25 – 8,553
  • 2025/26 – 9,451

International matches

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Doosan Arena has hosted one friendly and nine competitive matches of the Czech Republic national football team

12 October 2012 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification Group B Czech Republic  3–1  Malta Plzeň, Czech Republic
18:00 CEST (UTC+02)
Match 724/216
Gebre Selassie 34'
Pekhart 52'
Rezek 67'
FIFA Report Briffa 38' Stadium: Stadion města Plzně
Attendance: 10,358
Referee: Salmanov (Azerbaijan)
16 November 2014 UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying Group A Czech Republic  2–1  Iceland Plzeň, Czech Republic
20:45 CET (UTC+01)
Match 744/236
Kadeřábek 45+1'
Halldórsson 61' (o.g.)
UEFA Report R. Sigurðsson 9' Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 11,324[9]
Referee: Stark (Germany)
3 September 2015 UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying Group A Czech Republic  2–1  Kazakhstan Plzeň, Czech Republic
20:45 CEST (UTC+02)
Match 748/240
Škoda 74', 86' Report Logvinenko 21' Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 10,572[10]
Referee: Strömbergsson (Sweden)
8 October 2017 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Czech Republic  5–0  San Marino Plzeň, Czech Republic
20:45
(20:45 UTC+1)
Report Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 5,625
Referee: Alex Troleis (France)
14 November 2019 (2019-11-14) UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying Group A Czech Republic  2–1  Kosovo Plzeň, Czech Republic
20:45 UTC+1 Král 71'
Čelůstka 79'
Report Nuhiu 50' Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 10,986
Referee: Rocchi (Italy)
15 November 2020 2020–21 UEFA Nations League B Czech Republic  1–0  Israel Plzeň, Czech Republic
20:45 UTC+1
Report Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 0
Referee: Srđan Jovanović (Serbia)
18 November 2020 2020–21 UEFA Nations League B Czech Republic  2–0  Slovakia Plzeň, Czech Republic
20:45 UTC+1 Report Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 0
Referee: Cüneyt Çakır (Turkey)
8 September 2021 Friendly Czech Republic 1–1  Ukraine Plzeň, Czech Republic
20:45 UTC+2
Report Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 5,231
Referee: Filip Glova (Slovakia)
15 October 2023 (2023-10-15) UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying Czech Republic  1–0  Faroe Islands Plzeň, Czech Republic
18:00 UTC+2
Report Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 9,115
Referee: Rohit Saggi (Norway)
6 June 2025 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Czech Republic  2–0  Montenegro Plzeň, Czech Republic
20:45 UTC+2
Report Stadium: Doosan Arena
Attendance: 10,889
Referee: Serdar Gözübüyük (Netherlands)

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Doosan Arena is a football stadium in , , serving as the home ground for the professional club since its opening in 1955. Originally constructed as Stadion města Plzně in the Štruncovy sady park on the northeastern edge of the city center, it was built between 1953 and 1955 with an initial capacity of around 35,000 spectators, including standing areas. The venue was renamed Doosan Arena in 2012 following major renovations and a sponsorship deal with the South Korean industrial conglomerate . The stadium's early history included hosting significant matches, such as Czechoslovakia's national team game against in 1972 and friendlies against clubs like Flamengo in 1962 and Bayern Munich in 1971. By the early 2000s, aging infrastructure and safety concerns—exacerbated by flood damage in 2002—had reduced its capacity to below 10,000, prompting extensive reconstruction starting in April 2011. This overhaul, completed in phases through 2016 and costing a total of CZK 508 million, involved demolishing embankments to build modern enclosed stands, relocating the pitch 18 meters closer to the main stand, removing the athletics track, and installing floodlights at 1,500 lux along with large video screens. In summer 2025, a new hybrid turf was installed. The current all-seater capacity stands at 11,700, making it one of the most visited venues in the . Today, Doosan Arena hosts not only FC Viktoria Plzeň's domestic and European competitions—including and Europa League matches—but also Czech national team fixtures and other events. The first post-renovation match was a 1–1 Europa League draw against Schalke 04 on February 16, 2012. Its location offers easy access by foot from Plzeň's central market square or railway station, with tickets available online or at the venue (prices varying by match, category, and opponent, typically CZK 700–1,000 as of 2025). The stadium is praised for its organization, hospitality, and atmosphere, enhanced by proximity to landmarks like the .

Overview

Location

Doosan Arena is situated at Štruncovy sady 3, 301 12 , in the , within the expansive Štrunc Park on the north-eastern edge of the city's historic center. The venue occupies a strategic position near the confluence of the Mže and Radbuza rivers, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape. The stadium lies within a 15- to 20-minute walking distance from key urban landmarks, including the central Náměstí Republiky (Republic Square) and the main railway station (Plzeň hlavní nádraží). This proximity enhances its accessibility for pedestrians, allowing visitors to reach the city center effortlessly on foot. Štrunc Park, encompassing the arena, serves as a vital green space for local recreation, featuring pathways for walking and jogging, outdoor fitness equipment, and multi-sport facilities that support community activities beyond football events. The park's design promotes leisure and wellness, drawing residents for casual exercise and social gatherings amid its tree-lined areas and open lawns. Public transportation provides convenient access to the stadium area, with tram lines 1 and 2 stopping at the nearby "Anglické nábřeží" station, just a few minutes' walk away, and line 13 serving the same point. Bus route 28 also connects via the "Na Rychtářce" stop adjacent to the venue. For air travelers, the nearest airport is Plzeň-Líně Airport, located approximately 11 kilometers southwest of the stadium. Road access is facilitated by Plzeň's integration into the D5 motorway, which links the city directly to and the German border, enabling efficient vehicular approach to the urban core.

Naming and sponsorship

The stadium, situated within Štruncovy sady park in , was originally known as Štruncovy Sady in reference to the surrounding green space and opened in 1955 under the official name Stadion Města Plzně following its construction for the regional . The name Štruncovy Sady honors the park's historical association with local sports and Sokol Movement figure Emil Štrunc, though organized football activities at the site began with the 1955 venue. In 2012, upon completion of the major reconstruction project that began in 2011, the stadium was renamed Doosan Arena through a agreement with , a Plzeň-headquartered of the South Korean specializing in heavy machinery and power generation equipment such as steam turbines. This corporate sponsorship marked a shift toward commercial branding for the venue, aligning with the club's growing international profile. Specific details of the initial agreement, including its duration and financial terms, have not been publicly disclosed, though subsequent extensions have maintained the partnership. The sponsorship evolved into a broader , with extensions signed in recent years, including a multi-year deal covering four seasons from 2023 onward, encompassing jersey branding and stadium without altering the Doosan Arena designation. No prior naming rights deals were in place before 2011, and there are no announced plans for future changes, ensuring continuity under the current arrangement. Ownership of Doosan Arena remains with the City of , which oversees the property as a municipal asset, while day-to-day operational management is handled by , the club's primary tenant and user for domestic and international matches.

History

Origins and early expansions

The origins of the stadium now known as Doosan Arena trace back to the selection of the Štruncovy Sady park site in for a major sports facility in the early 1950s, amid the communist-era emphasis on mass physical culture events. Construction commenced in 1953, and the venue was officially inaugurated on May 1, 1955, to host the regional , a nationwide gymnastic and athletic organized by the state. The initial design included a prominent two-story main grandstand, considered among the finest in at the time, along with basic terracing and facilities for multi-sport use, including athletics. Upon opening, the stadium had a capacity of approximately 35,000 spectators, with 7,600 seats in the , enabling it to accommodate large crowds for both football and other events. In the years following its debut, incremental enlargements were made to the terracing and infrastructure to handle growing attendance, though specific details of these post-1955 modifications in the late remain limited in records; these adjustments helped solidify its role as a key regional venue. Since its completion, the stadium has served as the primary home ground for , a club founded in 1911 that relocated from earlier makeshift pitches after 44 years of existence. It hosted numerous significant domestic league matches during the 1960s through 1990s, including high-profile friendlies and competitive fixtures that underscored the club's rising prominence in Czechoslovak football, such as the 1962 exhibition against Brazilian side Flamengo and the 1971 encounter with Bayern Munich. These games drew substantial crowds, leveraging the venue's expansive layout to support Viktoria's participation in national championships and occasional European ties. By the 1970s and 1980s, the stadium underwent minor upgrades to align with emerging requirements for continental competitions, including the addition of floodlights in the mid-1970s to enable evening matches and partial roofing over sections of the stands for improved spectator comfort. These enhancements, while not transformative, ensured compliance with basic international standards and extended the venue's usability for Viktoria's domestic and limited European engagements during that era. By the late , however, accumulating wear highlighted the need for more substantial renovations to meet modern safety and regulatory demands.

2003 reconstruction

The 2003 reconstruction of the stadium in Štrunc Park, then known as Stadion města Plzně, was initiated in 2002 as part of the "Ligové stadiony" (League Stadiums) project, a Czech Football Association initiative requiring all top-division venues to comply with standards for safety, security, and facilities by the end of 2003. The reconstruction was prompted by the devastating 2002 floods that damaged the stadium's infrastructure, including wooden benches, alongside the need to meet standards. Key works focused on safety enhancements and modernization, including the installation of all-seating across the stands, removal of perimeter barriers, partial renovations to existing structures, addition of a heated under-pitch for improved drainage and year-round usability, new VIP lounges, and an upgraded . In line with all-seater requirements to prioritize spectator and comfort, the venue's capacity was sharply reduced from 35,000 (with 7,600 seated) to 7,425 fully seated positions. The project was estimated to cost around 70 million CZK by completion, forming part of a broader 100 million CZK municipal in sports infrastructure, with primary from the city of Plzeň and supplementary contributions from . The first match following the reconstruction occurred on August 2, 2003, when hosted FK Viktoria Žižkov in the , drawing a crowd within the new capacity limits despite ending in a 0–2 home defeat.

2011–2017 reconstruction

The major reconstruction of Doosan Arena commenced in spring 2011, involving the demolition of three outdated stands while retaining the original main stand from the . This phased redevelopment, spanning six years, transformed the venue from an athletics track-inclusive facility into a modern, football-specific stadium, with the pitch relocated 18 meters closer to the spectator areas to enhance atmosphere and visibility. The total cost reached approximately 508 million (CZK), funded primarily by the City of as owner, along with contributions from the federal government and . The initial phase focused on building three new stands, allowing partial operations despite ongoing work; by late August 2011, the stadium achieved a temporary capacity of around 8,500 spectators, enabling domestic during the national championship in May and the club's debut in August. Further progress by December 2011 increased capacity to approximately 13,000, though European fixtures that season were relocated to Prague's Eden Arena due to incomplete safety upgrades. The first match in the partially renovated setup occurred on February 16, 2012, when FC Viktoria Plzeň hosted Schalke 04 in the knockout round, ending in a 1–1 draw before 10,629 fans. Subsequent phases addressed remaining sections, with the north stand completed in 2014–2015 and the west stand, including two corner towers for full , finalized in –2017 at an additional cost of 90 million CZK for the towers alone. These upgrades integrated Category 3 standards, featuring covered seating, modern media facilities, and large screens on the north and south stands to support international competitions, including Champions League and Europa League matches as well as Czech national team games. Challenges included coordinating around the club's successful 2011 season, which featured league title contention and European qualification, necessitating temporary capacity reductions to as low as 3,500 during peak demolition periods. By completion in late , the stadium reached its final capacity of 11,700 fully covered seats, marking a complete shift to a enclosed, all-seater venue.

Design and facilities

Capacity and seating

Doosan Arena accommodates a total of 11,700 spectators in an all-seated configuration, with every seat fully covered by roofing, making it suitable for year-round events regardless of weather conditions. This capacity is approved by for international football matches, ensuring the venue meets stringent standards for safety and infrastructure during high-profile competitions. The seating layout is divided into four primary stands surrounding the pitch. The West Stand functions as the main grandstand, featuring premium seating options including team benches, press areas, and dedicated VIP zones such as the President, Red, and Blue hospitality areas, which collectively seat around 600 guests with enhanced amenities. The East Stand is reserved for away supporters, primarily in sections U12 and U13, providing approximately 627 seats in a segregated area to maintain . The North and South Stands are allocated mainly to home fans, with the North known for its vocal supporter groups and the South offering family-oriented seating in designated zones for a more relaxed viewing experience. Accessibility features include provisions for disabled spectators, such as wheelchair-accessible seating integrated across the stands and companion spaces, along with ramps and elevators for barrier-free navigation. Safety measures encompass multiple evacuation routes, advanced , and emergency lighting, all in compliance with modern Czech building codes and EU directives on public venue safety. While the current design prioritizes a compact, efficient layout post-2011 reconstructions,

Pitch and infrastructure

The playing surface at Doosan Arena measures 105 meters in length by 68 meters in width, adhering to standard specifications for international matches. It features natural grass turf, which supports high-quality gameplay and is maintained to meet standards. The pitch includes to ensure usability during colder months, a feature confirmed as part of the stadium's . Floodlighting at the arena provides 1,500 of illumination, sufficient for broadcasts and evening fixtures. The system has since been upgraded to an all-LED configuration. This system was installed during the 2011–2016 reconstruction, enhancing the venue's suitability for both domestic and European competitions. The lighting setup contributes to the stadium's operational efficiency without compromising visibility or safety. Supporting infrastructure includes adjacent training pitches within Štrunc Park, developed for youth and reserve team sessions on approximately 1.5 hectares of grassed area. These facilities allow for seamless integration of training activities close to the main stadium. Parking options are available nearby, including the Rychtářka parking house, accommodating spectators on matchdays. Media and press areas are provided to facilitate reporting and broadcasting needs during events. The stadium's design integrates with the surrounding Štrunc Park, featuring pathways that connect the venue to green spaces, promoting accessibility while preserving the natural environment.

Usage and events

Domestic football

Doosan Arena has served as the home venue for since its opening in 1955, primarily hosting matches in the (Fortuna:Národní liga). The stadium accommodates the club's regular season fixtures, where Viktoria Plzeň competes against other top Czech teams, contributing to the club's sustained presence in the top flight. Prior to the major reconstruction phases beginning in 2011, home games typically drew average crowds of around 5,000 spectators, reflecting the club's growing popularity in the domestic league. Key domestic events at the arena include high-stakes league derbies, such as clashes with , which attract intense rivalries and significant local support. These matches often feature competitive encounters that highlight Viktoria Plzeň's role in the league's competitive landscape, with recent fixtures drawing over 10,000 fans post-reconstruction. The stadium has also hosted occasional quarterfinals and earlier rounds involving the club, underscoring its utility for national knockout competitions. The atmosphere at Doosan Arena during domestic games is characterized by a vibrant fan culture, led by dedicated supporter groups in the sections, particularly in the south stand. fans are known for their organized chants, such as " Viktorka " and rhythmic support throughout matches, fostering a passionate environment that energizes the team. Matchday traditions include pre-game gatherings and flares, creating an intimidating yet celebratory vibe unique to Viktoria Plzeň's supporter base. Beyond senior team fixtures, the arena supports non-league activities, including youth academy matches for Viktoria Plzeň's U19 and U21 squads, which utilize the main pitch for competitive games and development. The facility also hosts club training sessions, allowing the first team and reserves to prepare in a professional setting integrated with the stadium's infrastructure. The completion of the stadium's reconstruction in 2017 has positively influenced FC Viktoria Plzeň's performance, coinciding with their title win in the 2017–18 season and subsequent strong domestic campaigns, including multiple top finishes and successes. The modernized venue has enhanced through improved facilities and higher attendance, averaging over 10,000 per game, which has bolstered team morale and fan engagement.

International fixtures

Since the completion of its major reconstruction, Doosan Arena has hosted numerous European club competitions for , starting with the stadium's first -approved match in the round of 32 against Schalke 04 on 16 February 2012, which ended in a 1–1 draw. The venue's UEFA Category 3 certification, achieved through the 2011–2017 upgrades, has enabled consistent participation in qualifiers and group stages of the and . has played over 30 home European fixtures at the arena since 2012, with notable examples including a 2–0 victory over in the 2017–18 Europa League group stage and a 1–2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the 2022–23 Champions League group stage. High-profile encounters have drawn record crowds, such as the 2024–25 Europa League league phase match against Manchester United on 12 December 2024, where lost 1–2 in front of 11,320 spectators, marking one of the stadium's largest attendances for international club games. These matches underscore the arena's role in elevating 's profile in European football, with the team advancing from qualifiers on multiple occasions, including debuts in Champions League group play during the 2018–19 season. Doosan Arena has also served as a venue for selected Czech Republic national team fixtures in UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup qualifiers. A key example is the 2–1 victory over Iceland on 16 November 2014 in Euro 2016 qualifying, where Pavel Kadeřábek and an own goal by Jón Daði Böðvarsson secured the win. Other significant games include a 2–1 win over Kazakhstan on 3 September 2015 in Euro 2016 qualifying, a 2–1 triumph over Kosovo on 14 November 2019 in Euro 2020 qualifying, and a 2–0 victory over Montenegro on 6 June 2025 in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying. The stadium has hosted around 10 national team matches since 2012, often drawing over 10,000 fans and highlighting its suitability for high-stakes international play under UEFA standards.

Attendance and records

The highest recorded attendance at the stadium occurred on 16 September 1961, during a match between Spartak Plzeň and FK Dukla Praha, which ended in a 1–7 defeat for the home side, drawing 35,000 spectators. Following the major reconstruction completed in , the all-seater capacity was set at 11,700. Numerous home matches have since sold out, achieving this maximum attendance, particularly in and high-profile domestic fixtures. Average home league attendances for have consistently been among the highest in the , often exceeding 8,000 spectators per match. The peak average was 10,868 during the 2014–15 season across 15 home games. Below is a summary of average home attendances for selected recent seasons (data as of November 2025):
SeasonMatchesAverage AttendanceTotal Attendance
2025–2689,36674,927
2024–25158,553128,295
2023–24159,030135,450
2022–23158,779131,685
2021–22156,43096,452
2020–21172,69845,866
2014–151510,868163,025
The dip in 2020–21 reflects restrictions due to the .

References

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