Hubbry Logo
Ferencváros StadionFerencváros StadionMain
Open search
Ferencváros Stadion
Community hub
Ferencváros Stadion
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Ferencváros Stadion
Ferencváros Stadion
from Wikipedia

The Ferencváros Stadion, also known as the Groupama Aréna for sponsorship purposes, is a multi-purpose stadium in Ferencváros, Budapest, Hungary and the home of Ferencvárosi TC.[1][2] With a capacity of 22,000, it was for a time the largest stadium in Hungary (between the demolition of the larger Ferenc Puskás Stadium in 2017 and the opening of the Puskás Aréna in November 2019). It was built on the site of the former Flórián Albert Stadium, the club's previous home, which was demolished in 2013.

Key Information

The French insurance group Groupama purchased the naming rights to the stadium. However, the name cannot be used when hosting FIFA and UEFA events, since these governing bodies have policies forbidding corporate sponsorship from companies that are not official tournament partners.

History

[edit]

Planning

[edit]

Since 1911, Ferencváros had played their home games at Stadion Albert Flórián, originally named Üllői úti Stadion. The stadium had had a major upgrade from 1971 to 1974, and in the 21st century the club desired a stadium with an expanded capacity. Reconstruction of Stadion Albert Flórián was rejected for financial reasons, and plans to demolish the stadium and replace it with an entirely new structure were presented at a press conference in April 2012 by Gábor Kubatov, the president of Ferencváros. The proposed capacity of 22,600 would make it the second biggest stadium in Hungary.

The new stadium would be reorientated 90° and closer to Gyáli út, with a pitch 10 cm below ground level. Corporate hospitality, a restaurant, shop and museum were all planned, along with expanded changing facilities.[3]

Construction

[edit]
The statue of the 1967 Ballon d'Or-winner Flórián Albert (1941–2011) in front of the main entrance

Market építő Zrt won the tender to construct the stadium, with a projected cost of 13.5 billion Ft. Construction started on 28 March 2013,[4] with an estimated completion time of autumn 2014.[5]

On 24 May 2013, Balázs Fürjes, MP of the Hungarian Parliament and person responsible for the investment, announced that the stadium would be finished on time. The construction of the new stadium is expected to be completed by the fall of 2014. In 2013 there will be 5,4 billion HUF available for the project and 8,1 billion HUF in 2014. Mihály Varga, minister of national economy of Hungary, said that the sale of the estate, which will be gained by rotating the stadium by 90°, will cover the expenses of the stadium. If the construction is not completed on time, the constructor company (Market Épitő Zrt.) will have to pay 65 million HUF daily.[6]

Melinda Várkonyi said that an 82-millimetre grenade was found at the building site of the new stadium. Allegedly the shell originates from a Soviet grenade launcher from the Second World War.[7]

On 3 October 2013, Balázs Fürjes, MP of the Hungarian Parliament, said that the construction of the stadium is of record speed. It was quite sure that the club could start the 2014–15 Hungarian League season in the new stadium. The Ferencváros club centre was opened, where the fans of the club can take a look at the plans of the new stadium or a 3D film can be watched about the future stadium. Balázs Fürjes also pointed out that the new stadium will be a multi-purpose stadium where concerts, conferences, cultural events can be held apart from association football matches. He also mentioned that the elements of the old Albert stadium will be used for the construction of the new stadium. Therefore, it is a green investment for two reasons: for the colours of the club, and for the eco-friendly construction. The steel structure, which weighs 2800 tons, was made in Kecskemét while the concrete structure, which is 25,000 cubic metres, was made in Dunaújváros. The construction of the new stadium gives jobs for almost 2000 blue-collar workers.[8]

On 17 January 2014, new photos about the new stadium were released on the Facebook site of the Albert Stadium.[9]

On 18 April 2014, it was announced that a 3-metre-tall statue of Ferencváros Ballon d'Or winner Flórián Albert will be erected in front of the main entrance. Sándor Kligl, sculptor and artist, was asked to make the bronze statue. The artist also said that he saw playing the Ferencváros legend live and it was worth going to the stadium just because of him. He was commissioned with many different tasks but this has been the most special one in his life. Junior Flórián Albert said that it was a moving moment to look at his father statue.[10]

In April 2014, Lagardère Unlimited Stadium Solutions, the dedicated agency for stadia and arena operations owned by Lagardère Unlimited, signed a long-term naming right contract with and French insurer Groupama. The deal includes the operation, management and marketing of the new arena. Lagardère Unlimited Stadium Solutions is currently involved in consulting, operations and marketing services in several stadiums worldwide, including Commerzbank-Arena in Frankfurt, Imtech Arena in Hamburg and two stadiums in Brazil. On 2 July 2014, it was announced that the name of the new stadium would be the Groupama Arena.

The Springer statue, the first president of Ferencváros

On 7 July 2014, it was announced that the first kick would be executed by Ferencváros legend, Ferenc Rudas.[11]

It was revealed that one of the halls will be named after former Ferencváros and Barcelona legend László Kubala who played for Ferencváros between 1945 and 1946 and scored 33 goals in 50 matches.[12][13]

On 4 August 2014, the first unofficial match was played at the stadium in front of 6,500 spectators. Ferencváros old-boys team including Szeiler, Dzurják, Lipcsei, Telek, and Lisztes hosted their arch-rival Újpest old-boys including Kovács, Szlezák, Fehér, Egressy, and Mészöly. The final result was 6–5 to Újpest. The tickets for free those supporters who purchased season tickets before the match and for the workers and their relatives who contributed to the construction of the new stadium.[14]

On 10 August 2014, Ferencváros played the opening match against Chelsea F.C. The first goal at the new stadium was scored by Ferencváros Legened, Zoltán Gera in the 17th minute. However, in the second half Ramires (51st minute) and Fàbregas scored (81st minute) which resulted the 2–1 defeat at the new stadium for the home side.[15][16][17]

On 10 August 2014, around 2,500 spectators belonging to the B Közép organised an alternative match at the stadium of BKV Előre SC in protest against the high entrance fees earmarked by the leadership of Ferencváros, the entrance security checks, and that Chelsea would play the opening match against Ferencváros and not the Austrian archrival Rapid Wien. The two teams included the supporters of Ferencváros and Rapid Wien.[18]

On 24 August 2014, the first Hungarian League match was played at the stadium. Ferencváros beat Nyíregyháza 3–1. The first goal was scored by Busai in the 13th minute.[19]

On 7 September 2014, Hungary played their first match at the stadium against Northern Ireland. The UEFA Euro 2016 qualifier ended with a 2–1 away victory.[20]

On 14 November 2014, Hungary won their first match at the new stadium by beating Finland 1–0 thanks to Gera's 84th-minute goal in the UEFA Euro 2016 qualifier.[21]

On 9 July 2015, Ferencváros played their first international match at the stadium against Dutch club Go Ahead Eagles in the second leg of the first qualifying round of the 2015–16 UEFA Europa League, with Ferencváros winning 4–1.[22]

On 20 May 2016 the first non-UEFA member was hosted in the stadium when Hungary played against Ivory Coast in a goalless friendly tier.[23]

On 22 September 2017, it was announced that the first CONCACAF member to play at the stadium will be national team of Costa Rica.[24]

The final of the 2018–19 UEFA Women's Champions League was held at the stadium on 18 May 2019.[25]

Sport arena

[edit]

The stadium was categorised as a Category 4 facility by the UEFA which is suitable for Nemzeti Bajnokság I, Magyar Kupa, UEFA European Championship qualifying, FIFA World Cup qualification, UEFA Champions League group stage and quarter-final. In addition, the stadium can host FIFA U-17 World Cup and U21 FIFA U20 World Cup.[26]

The capacity of the arena is 23,800 for Nemzeti Bajnokság I and Magyar Kupa matches and 22,000 for UEFA and FIFA matches. The difference is due to the fact that there are standing stands in the B-közép and the visitors sector.[27] The area of the stadium is 19,042 square metres, including the pitch it is 28,746.5 square metres. The main building has four floors, and under it there is a three-level garage which can host 354 vehicles. There is a car park in front of the main building which can host 106 cars. Next to the stadium there is also a parking lot which can host 405 cars.[28]

The construction took 14 months. During the construction 60 000 cubic metre was moved. The amount of the concrete used in the construction was 24 492 cubic metre, while the steel structure was 2708 tons. The steel structure was manufactured in Kecskemét, while the pre-fabricated concrete was made in Dunaújváros.[29]

Construction costs

[edit]

The stadium cost 53.3 million USD. The price per seat was 1,996 USD. In 2014, the arena was the fifth cost-per-seat building and sixth by price in Hungary. Nagyerdei Stadion of Debrecen overtook in cost, but not in cost-per-seat.[30]

Tenants

[edit]

Székesfehérvár-based MOL Vidi FC played their home matches of the 2018–19 UEFA Europa League group stage against BATE Borisov, PAOK FC, and Chelsea F.C. in the stadium due to the reconstruction of Sóstói Stadion.

Music

[edit]

Besides football, the stadium can be configured to hold many other events, particularly major concerts but also private events like weddings and conferences. The first concert at the new stadium was given by Depeche Mode on 22 May 2017.

Concerts

[edit]

Facilities and innovations

[edit]

Fradi Museum

[edit]

On 7 August 2014, The Fradi Museum was opened. The visitors to the museum can get acquainted with the history of Ferencváros. Cups, trophies and flags can be seen at the museum such as Flórián Albert's 1967 Ballon d'Or, the trophy of the 1937 Mitropa Cup, Tibor Nyilasi's Silver shoe, and the trophy of the 1965 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup Final along with many other trophies and cups in connection with the club can be seen.[31]

Cashless catering

[edit]

The Cashless catering system is used in the premises of the entire stadium.[32]

Vascular technology

[edit]

The arena has been the first stadium in Hungary where vein matching or vascular technology has been installed.

Transport

[edit]

Groupama Arena is located in the ninth district of Budapest, Hungary. The arena can be approached by Budapest Metro Line 3. The nearest Metro station is called Népliget.

Service Station/Stop Line/Route Walking distance from Groupama Arena
Budapest Metro Népliget Blue 100 m 2 mins
Budapest tram Népliget 1 100 m 2 mins
Budapest Bus Népliget 254E
901
914
914A
918
937
950
100 m 2 mins

Milestone matches

[edit]
10 August 2014 Ferencváros Hungary 1–2 England Chelsea Friendly match (Opening match)
Gera 17' (Report) Ramires 51'
Fàbregas 81'
Attendance: 20,000
Referee: István Vad (Hungary)
24 August 2014 Ferencváros Hungary 3–1 Hungary Nyíregyháza 2014–15 Nemzeti Bajnokság I
(First Nemzeti Bajnokság I match)
Busai 13'
Gera 28'
Mateos 67'
(Report) Bajzát 78' Attendance: 12,128
Referee: István Vad (Hungary)
17 September 2014 Ferencváros Hungary 2–0 Hungary Zalaegerszeg 2014–15 Ligakupa
(First Ligakupa match)
Ugrai 34'
Nagy 82'
(Report) Attendance: 437
Referee: József Berger (Hungary)
4 March 2015 Ferencváros Hungary 5–0 Hungary Csákvár 2014–15 Magyar Kupa
(First Magyar Kupa match)
Busai 7' 62' 70'
Lamah 37'
Ramírez 64'
(Report) Attendance: 3,514
Referee: Karakó (Hungary)
9 July 2015 Ferencváros Hungary 4–1 Netherlands Go Ahead Eagles 2015–16 Europa League
(First Europa League match)
Gera 4'
Böde 20'
Busai 45'
Haraszti 89'
(Report) Türüç 90+3' Attendance: 0[33]
Referee: TBD
20 July 2016 Ferencváros Hungary 1–1 (a.e.t.)
(1–3 p)
Albania Partizani Tirana 2016–17 Champions League
(First Champions League match)
19:30 Gera 14' (pen.) Report Hüsing 40' (o.g.) Attendance: 8,752
Referee: Kristo Tohver (Estonia)
Penalties
Gera soccer ball with red X
Šesták soccer ball with red X
Nagy soccer ball with check mark
Ramírez soccer ball with red X
soccer ball with check mark Hoxha
soccer ball with red X Vila
soccer ball with check mark Trashi
soccer ball with check mark Ekuban

Magyar Kupa finals

[edit]

Hungary national football team matches

[edit]
7 September 2014 Euro 2016 Q Hungary  1–2  Northern Ireland
18:00 CET Priskin 75' Report McGinn 81'
K. Lafferty 88'
Attendance: 20,672
Referee: Deniz Aytekin (Germany)
14 November 2014 Euro 2016 Q Hungary  1–0  Finland
20:45 CET Gera 84' Report Attendance: 19,500
Referee: Clément Turpin (France)
18 November 2014 Friendly match Hungary  1–2  Russia
20:30 CET Nikolić 86' Report Ignashevich 49'
Kerzhakov 80'
Attendance: 4,000
Referee: Cüneyt Çakır (Turkey)
29 March 2015 Euro 2016 Q Hungary  0–0  Greece
20:45 CET Report Attendance: 22,000
Referee: Sergei Karasev (Russia)
4 September 2015 Euro 2016 Q Hungary  0–0  Romania
20:45 CET Report Attendance: 22,060
Referee: Felix Brych (Germany)
8 October 2015 Euro 2016 Q Hungary  2–1  Faroe Islands
20:45 CET Böde 63', 71' Report Jakobsen 11' Attendance: 16,175
Referee: Robert Schörgenhofer (Austria)
15 November 2015 Euro 2016 Q PO Hungary  2–1  Norway
20:45 CET Priskin 14'
Henriksen 83' (o.g.)
Report Henriksen 87' Attendance: 22,000
Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)
26 March 2016 Friendly match Hungary  1–1  Croatia
18:00 CET Dzsudzsák 79' Report Mandžukić 18' Attendance: 20,300
Referee: Radek Prihoda (Czech Republic)
20 May 2016 Friendly match Hungary  0–0  Ivory Coast
18:00 CET Report Attendance: 19,900
Referee: Vlado Glođović (Serbia)
7 October 2016 2018 FIFA WC Q Hungary  2–3   Switzerland
20:45 CET Szalai 53', 71' Report (FIFA)
Report (UEFA)
Seferovic 51'
Rodríguez 67'
Stocker 89'
Attendance: 21,546
Referee: Björn Kuipers (Netherlands)
13 November 2016 2018 FIFA WC Q Hungary  4–0  Andorra
18:00 CET Gera 34'
Lang 43'
Gyurcsó 73'
Szalai 88'
Report (FIFA)
Report (UEFA)[dead link]
Attendance: 21,344
Referee: Christos Nicolaides (Cyprus)
15 November 2016 Friendly match Hungary  0–2  Sweden
19:45 CET Report 30' Larsson
67' Thelin
Attendance: 16,842
Referee: Paolo Valeri (Italy)
5 June 2017 Friendly match Hungary  0–3  Russia
20:30 CET Report 20' Smolov
40' Eppel (o.g.)
89' Poloz
Attendance: 12,442
Referee: Christian Dingert (Germany)
31 August 2017 2018 FIFA WC Q Hungary  3–1  Latvia
20:45 CET 6' Kádár
26' Szalai
68' Dzsudzsák
Report 40' Freimanis Attendance: 20,036
Referee: Yevhen Aranovsky (Ukraine)
3 September 2017 2018 FIFA WC Q Hungary  0–1  Portugal
20:45 CET Report 48' A. Silva Attendance: 21,344
Referee: Danny Makkelie (Netherlands)
10 October 2017 2018 FIFA WC Q Hungary  1–0  Faroe Islands
20:45 CET Böde 81' Report Attendance: 18,775
Referee: Roi Reinshreiber (Israel)
14 November 2017 Friendly match Hungary  1–0  Costa Rica
20:15 CET Nikolić 37' Report Attendance: 9,860
Referee: Alexander Harkam (Austria)
23 March 2018 Friendly match Hungary  2–3  Kazakhstan
19:00 CET Szalai 21'
Németh 68'
Report 6' Murtazayev
21' Zaynutdinov
39' Seidakhmet
Attendance: 9,038
Referee: Tomasz Musial (Poland)
27 March 2018 Friendly match Hungary  0–1  Scotland
20:00 CET Report Attendance: 9,000
Referee: Harald Lechner (Austria)
9 June 2018 Friendly match Hungary  1–2  Australia
17:30 CEST
Report
Attendance: 10,091
Referee: Matej Jug (Slovenia)
11 September 2018 2018–19 UEFA NL Hungary  2–1  Greece
20:45 CET Report
Attendance: 120
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)
15 November 2018 2018–19 UEFA NL Hungary  2–0  Estonia
20:45 CET
Report Attendance: 7,775
Referee: Enea Jorgji (Albania)
18 November 2018 2018–19 UEFA NL Hungary  2–0  Finland
20:45 CET
Report Attendance: 9,200
Referee: Slavko Vinčić (Slovenia)
24 March 2019 Euro 2020 Q Hungary  2–1  Croatia
18:00 CET
Report
Attendance: 19,400
Referee: Willie Collum (Scotland)
11 June 2019 Euro 2020 Q Hungary  1–0  Wales
20:45 CET
Report Attendance: 18,350
Referee: Matej Jug (Slovenia)
9 September 2019 Euro 2020 Q Hungary  1–2  Slovakia
20:45 CET Report
Attendance: 22,000
Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain)
13 October 2019 Euro 2020 Q Hungary  1–0  Azerbaijan
18:00 CET
Report Attendance: 11,300
Referee: Dennis Higler (Netherlands)

Note:

Statistics

[edit]
As of 9 December 2020
Match P W D L GD
Qualifier 18 12 2 4 27–13
Friendly 9 1 2 6 6–14
Total 27 13 4 10 33–27

Top-scorer: Hungary Ádám Szalai (8 goals)

Average attendances

[edit]
As of 19 May 2025

This table includes only domestic league matches.

Season Ferencvárosi TC Ref
Division GP Average Change Highest Gate Lowest Gate
2014–15 NB I 15 8,384 21,217 vs Újpest 3,465 vs Pápa [34]
2015–16 NB I 17 7,737 −7.7% 17,489 vs Újpest 4,858 vs Puskás Akadémia [35]
2016–17 NB I 17 6,721 −13.1% 11,760 vs Újpest 4,754 vs MTK Budapest [36]
2017–18 NB I 17 9,066 +34.8% 19,125 vs Debrecen 4,911 vs Szombathelyi Haladás [37]
2018–19 NB I 17 10,715 +18.2% 20,675 vs Újpest 6,771 vs Puskás Akadémia [38]
2019–20 NB I 15[39] 9,175 −14.3% 18,759 vs Újpest 2,123 vs Kisvárda [40]
2020–21 NB I 5[41] 7,623 −16.9% 15,789 vs Újpest 2,921 vs Mezőkövesd [42]
2021–22 NB I 17 8,709 +14.2% 20,155 vs Újpest 5,677 vs Mezőkövesd, ZTE [43]
2022–23 NB I 16 10,430 +19.7% 18,197 vs Újpest 7,051 vs Puskás Akadémia [44]
2023–24 NB I 17 11,340 +8.7% 20,357 vs Újpest 6,127 vs Mezőkövesd [45]
2024–25 NB I 16 11,236 −0.9% 19,021 vs Puskás Akadémia 6,695 vs MTK Budapest [46]
[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Ferencváros Stadion, commonly known as Groupama Aréna for sponsorship purposes, is a located in the district of , , serving primarily as the home ground for the football club . With an all-seated capacity of 23,698 for domestic matches (reduced to 22,000 for and events due to additional safety requirements), it is one of 's largest and most modern venues, featuring advanced facilities including 34 skyboxes, full coverage, and a cashless payment system. Opened on August 10, 2014, with an inaugural friendly match against , the stadium replaced the club's previous ground on the same site and has since hosted significant events such as Hungarian Cup finals, qualifiers, and matches for the national team. The stadium's construction began in 2013 following the demolition of the aging 1974-era Albert Flórián Stadion, which had been Ferencvárosi TC's home since at 129 Üllői Road; the new €40 million project was completed in just 14 months, creating around 3,000 jobs and earning the 2015 TheStadiumBusiness Award for best new venue. Designed with a "Go Green" theme incorporating energy-efficient features like LED lighting and rainwater collection, the arena includes a pitch reinforced with fibers for durability, heated under-pitch systems, and seating for 2,969 VIP guests across multiple areas. and operations are managed by , with held by Insurance since 2014, extended through at least 2029. Beyond football, Groupama Aréna has become a key venue for Hungarian , accommodating the national team's home games during the Puskás Aréna's reconstruction from 2017 to 2019, including qualifiers, as well as the 2019 final and various concerts and corporate events. Its strategic location near Budapest's city center, accessible via Metro Line 3 and Tram Line 1, along with 480 parking spaces and proximity to major transport hubs, enhances its role as a multifaceted hub for sports and in .

History

Planning and Development

The aging Üllői úti stadion, also known as Albert Flórián Stadion and originally constructed in 1911, had become inadequate for contemporary football standards by the , with its effective capacity reduced to 18,100 seats due to safety concerns, outdated facilities, and failure to meet Category 4 requirements for European competitions. The venue, which had served as Ferencvárosi TC's home since the club's early years, suffered from structural deterioration and limited amenities, prompting calls for replacement to support the club's ambitions in domestic and international play. Planning for the new Ferencváros Stadion was formally initiated in under the leadership of Ferencvárosi TC president Gábor Kubatov and managing director Pál Orosz, who secured crucial backing from the Hungarian government as part of a broader national program to revitalize football infrastructure. Key stakeholders included , the , and state authorities, with the government assuming ownership and primary funding responsibility to classify the project as one of strategic national importance. Reconstruction of the existing site was rejected due to prohibitive costs, leading to decisions for full demolition and a new build. The site was selected at the location of the former Albert Flórián Stadion in Budapest's district, along Üllői út avenue, to preserve the club's historical connection to the area while enabling integration with urban transport links near the city's southeastern bypass. The architectural design was handled by S.A.M.O. Tervező és Ingatlanfejlesztő Kft., focusing on a multi-purpose venue with enhanced spectator experience and sustainability elements. approval followed swiftly in 2012, accompanied by an initial budget allocation of approximately €40 million from state funds, marking a pivotal step toward construction commencement the following year.

Construction and Opening

Construction of the Ferencváros Stadion began in March 2013 on the site of the former Albert Flórián Stadion, following the demolition of the old venue. The project was executed by the Hungarian contractor Market Építő Zrt. and completed in just 14 months, enabling the stadium to open ahead of the 2014–15 season despite logistical hurdles inherent to large-scale urban construction. This rapid timeline was notable for a facility of its scale, involving extensive groundwork and structural assembly in Budapest's densely populated district. The build process incorporated substantial materials, including approximately 24,492 cubic meters of for the foundation and stands, and 2,708 tons of for the framework and supports, highlighting the demands of creating a modern multi-purpose venue. These elements were prefabricated off-site to accelerate on-site progress, with the steel structure manufactured in and produced in . The stadium's core was operational by mid-2014, allowing for final installations such as seating and lighting. The stadium was inaugurated on 10 August 2014 with a pre-season friendly match between Ferencváros and Chelsea F.C., ending in a 1–2 defeat for the hosts. The first goal of the new venue was scored by Ferencváros midfielder Zoltán Gera in the 17th minute, followed by Chelsea's equalizer from Ramires and a winner by Cesc Fàbregas. The opening ceremony featured addresses from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and club officials, celebrating the return of Ferencváros to their traditional home after temporary relocation. Approximately 20,000 spectators attended the event, filling much of the initial capacity under UEFA restrictions. Following the opening, operational management was handed over to Lagardère Unlimited Stadium Solutions in April 2014 under a long-term agreement, covering ticketing, , and facility operations to ensure smooth integration into professional football use. Early adjustments included compliance upgrades to secure UEFA Category 4 certification, the highest rating for European competitions, which involved enhancements to safety, media facilities, and pitch conditions shortly after . This status enabled the stadium to host international matches from the outset.

Design and Specifications

Architecture and Capacity

The Groupama Aréna, commonly referred to as Ferencváros Stadion, exemplifies modern stadium with its all-seater configuration and a prominent green exterior that embodies the club's traditional colors, creating a visually striking "Go Green" theme visible from surrounding areas in . Designed by S.A.M.O. Tervező és Ingatlanfejlesztő in 2012, the structure incorporates metal mesh facades and glass elements on the main grandstand, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal suited for both football and multi-purpose events. The stadium holds certification for its sustainable design features. The stadium's seating layout is organized into four principal stands—North, South, East, and West—offering comprehensive coverage for spectators, with all 23,704 seats protected under a metal-sheet roof. This total capacity reduces to 22,000 for UEFA-governed international matches to ensure compliance with required distances from the pitch to seating areas. Premium facilities include 34 luxury skyboxes and 2,969 VIP seats, primarily concentrated on the West stand, which also houses commercial spaces like a club museum and megastore. At the heart of the venue lies a measuring 105 meters by 68 meters, surfaced with a hybrid natural grass system reinforced by fibers for improved resilience and playability, a feature introduced upon the stadium's opening. Nighttime events are supported by integrated LED floodlights, ensuring optimal visibility across the field and stands. is enhanced through dedicated ramps and seven high-efficiency elevators, promoting ease of navigation for all visitors, including those with mobility needs.

Construction Details and Costs

The construction of Ferencváros Stadion, known as Aréna, was completed in 2014 at an initial cost of approximately €40 million, funded primarily through direct investments by the Hungarian government as part of a wider national program to modernize sports during the ; the final cost reached around €47 million (HUF 14.7 billion). The project encompassed extensive site preparation, including the demolition of the previous Albert Flórián Stadion in spring 2013 and the rotation of the new stands by 90 degrees to optimize layout and access. Materials played a central role in the build, with structural usage totaling around 25,000 cubic meters and the roof steel structure weighing about 2,700 tons, highlighting the scale of engineering required for a multi-purpose venue of this capacity. Labor and construction were managed by domestic contractor Market Építő Zrt., completing the work in just 14 months despite the tight budget, which had risen from an initial HUF 13.5 billion. Financial aspects were bolstered by sponsorship integration, with secured by the French insurance company starting in July 2014, providing ongoing revenue streams beyond the initial build. Post-construction, the stadium is owned by the through Magyar Nemzeti Vagyonkezelő Zrt., while operations are managed by Hungary Ltd., with as the primary tenant.

Facilities and Innovations

Visitor Amenities

The Fradi Museum, opened on August 7, 2014, serves as a dedicated space for visitors to explore the rich legacy of through an array of club trophies, historical exhibits, and interactive displays highlighting the club's more than 120-year history since its founding in 1899. The museum showcases around 300 relics, including memorabilia from key achievements across various sports, offering an immersive experience that educates fans on the club's cultural and sporting significance. Access is available during specified hours, with guided stadium tours often incorporating the museum for a complete behind-the-scenes look. Catering options at the stadium include concession stands offering a variety of food and beverage choices for spectators, supported by a cashless introduced in 2014 using fan cards for efficient transactions. This setup streamlines purchases during events, reducing wait times and enhancing convenience for attendees. The stadium provides extensive restroom facilities distributed across levels to accommodate large crowds, along with heated seats in premium seating areas for added comfort during matches. These amenities ensure accessibility and hygiene standards suitable for a Category 4 venue. VIP services feature all-inclusive lounges and 34 skyboxes capable of hosting up to 500 guests, offering exclusive views, catered dining, and private accommodations for corporate or high-end spectators. These spaces emphasize luxury and personalization, with direct pitch access and enhanced facilities. To support diverse visitors, the stadium includes designated family zones for those attending with children, accessible via specific gates, and provides designated accessible parking spaces for disabled visitors to facilitate easy entry and mobility, including a new area established in 2025 through a partnership with Provident. These features promote inclusivity, with additional accommodations like wheelchair-accessible seating integrated throughout the venue.

Technological and Sustainability Features

The Aréna incorporates advanced biometric technology for secure and efficient entry, particularly for holders. In 2014, upon the stadium's opening, it became the first venue in to implement a palm vein recognition system developed by BioSec, which scans unique vascular patterns in the hand to authenticate fans and prevent unauthorized access or . This innovation has processed over 100,000 entries without reported incidents of violence in its initial years, enhancing safety while reducing entry times. Sustainability features are integral to the stadium's design, aligning with certification standards for eco-efficiency. The venue collects rainwater for and other non-potable uses, minimizing water consumption. Energy-efficient LED lighting illuminates the interior and exterior, supplemented by natural daylight through extensive glazed facades. Additionally, a rooftop system comprising 1,350 panels with a 499 kW capacity generates approximately 600,000 kWh annually, covering a portion of the stadium's needs, while a 100 m² solar collector supports 40% of hot water requirements. Digital infrastructure supports modern fan experiences with comprehensive coverage available throughout the 22,700-seat arena, enabling connectivity for spectators during events. Two large LED scoreboards, each measuring 63 square meters, provide high-resolution displays for statistics, replays, and advertisements, ensuring visibility from all seating areas. The playing surface employs a Desso hybrid pitch system, combining natural grass with synthetic fibers for enhanced durability and stability, including to maintain optimal conditions year-round. measures include a high-resolution CCTV network integrated with access controls, contributing to the overall safety framework alongside the biometric entry system.

Tenants and Usage

Primary Tenants

The primary tenant of Ferencváros Stadion, also known as Groupama Aréna, is (FTC), the Hungarian professional football club, which has used the venue as its home ground since the stadium's opening in 2014. FTC hosts its (NB I) league matches, and Conference League fixtures, and training sessions at the stadium, with a capacity tailored to accommodate its fanbase for domestic and European competitions. The Hungarian national football team has occasionally utilized the stadium as a home venue from 2014 to 2019, primarily for Euro qualifiers and international friendlies, including matches against , , , and in 2019. This usage supported the team's campaigns during a period when the stadium met Category 4 standards for international play. In 2018, MOL Vidi FC (now Fehérvár FC) served as a temporary tenant for its group stage home matches, including fixtures against BATE Borisov, , and , due to renovations at its own Sóstói Stadion that prevented compliance with requirements. The stadium is owned by the Hungarian state and operated under long-term agreement by Lagardère Unlimited Stadium Solutions, a subsidiary of the Lagardère Group, which manages ticketing, marketing, and event operations to ensure commercial viability. Non-football usage is limited, focusing mainly on corporate events and conferences, complementing its primary role in sports.

Football Events and Competitions

The Groupama Aréna, formerly known as Ferencváros Stadion, primarily hosts the home matches of in the (NB I), Hungary's premier football league. As the club's main venue since its opening in 2014, it accommodates approximately 15-20 regular season games per campaign, allowing to compete in the 33-round schedule that defines the domestic championship. These fixtures form the core of the stadium's football calendar, drawing consistent support from the club's dedicated fanbase. In European competitions, the stadium has been a key site for Ferencvárosi TC's engagements since 2014, featuring qualifiers and group matches in the and . The club has advanced to the Champions League group on one occasion and the Europa League group three times, alongside participation in the UEFA Conference League group once, with all home legs played at the arena to meet 's Category 4 standards. Domestically, the venue supports cup competitions through hosting various rounds of the Magyar Kupa, Hungary's premier knockout tournament, including multiple finals that underscore its role in national football events. The stadium also sees occasional use for lower-tier games, such as those involving Ferencvárosi TC's youth academy teams and the women's squad in the NB I Women league, providing a professional setting for developmental and gender-specific competitions. Record crowds for NB I league games, especially high-stakes derbies against rivals like , have surpassed 20,000 spectators, reflecting the intense local rivalries that energize the venue.

Entertainment and Other Events

Concerts

The Ferencváros Stadion, operating as Aréna, has established itself as a premier venue for major international music tours since its 2014 opening, hosting high-profile performances that draw tens of thousands of attendees while utilizing its flexible layout for stage configurations on the pitch area. The stadium's first major occurred on May 22, 2017, when headlined their , selling out the event with 25,200 fans in attendance and marking the venue's debut as a space. Later that summer, on August 23, Robbie Williams delivered a dynamic show from his Tour, supported by synth-pop duo Erasure, captivating a large crowd with hits spanning his solo career and era. Subsequent years saw a diverse array of rock and metal acts take the stage. performed on June 7, 2022, during their Legacy of the Beast World Tour, with openers and , achieving an attendance of 21,206 and featuring elaborate theatrical elements inspired by the band's comic book mythology. Hungarian artists have also featured prominently, including local electronic group F.O.X. as the opening act for Depeche Mode's 2017 show, blending influences with the headliners' electronic legacy. The arena's multi-purpose architecture supports concert adaptations by placing temporary stages on the field, maintaining a typical capacity of around 22,000 while ensuring optimal sightlines and sound coverage across all sections.

Cultural Impact

The Groupama Aréna, home to , has emerged as a potent symbol of revival in Budapest's district, blending historical significance with modern following its 2014 opening. The stadium's construction aligned with broader efforts to modernize Hungarian football infrastructure, replacing the aging Stadium and catalyzing district-wide regeneration through and public spaces. This post-2014 transformation reflects national ambitions to elevate football facilities, positioning the arena as a beacon of progress in a neighborhood long associated with the club's green-and-white heritage. Community engagement at the fosters deep ties between and local residents, with initiatives like fan festivals, club anniversary celebrations, and educational programs hosted through the Fradi Museum. The museum, integrated into the arena complex, offers interactive exhibits on the club's 125-year history, including contests, memorabilia displays, and guided tours that educate visitors on ' legacy while promoting fan loyalty. These activities extend to broader CSR efforts, such as youth-oriented events that encourage participation in club traditions and sports heritage. Economically, the stadium has provided a significant boost to the local area, generating revenue through events, matches, and while creating ongoing opportunities in hospitality and services. By 2016, just two years after opening, the arena achieved profitability with €10 million in sales returns, rising further in subsequent years and supporting thousands of jobs in Budapest's sector. Its role in attracting international visitors for football and cultural events has enhanced the district's vibrancy, contributing to sustained economic growth in the 2020s. The arena's design and operations have earned international acclaim, including a nomination for Stadium of the Year by StadiumDB.com and the Best New Venue award at TheStadiumBusiness Awards in , highlighting its excellence in fan experience and multipurpose functionality. These recognitions underscore the stadium's contributions to elevating spectator comfort and event hosting standards. Social initiatives linked to the stadium emphasize inclusivity and development, with Ferencvárosi TC's "Ferencváros Against Racism" campaign utilizing the Groupama Aréna for awareness-raising events and matchday policies to combat discrimination. In partnership with Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE), these efforts have reduced racist incidents at the venue and engaged the community in promoting diversity. Youth development programs, including academy training and community sports sessions, leverage the stadium's facilities to nurture talent and foster social responsibility among young fans.

Notable Matches

Milestone Matches

The Ferencváros Stadion, known as Groupama Aréna for sponsorship purposes, opened with a friendly match on 10 August 2014, where faced , losing 1–2 in front of an attendance of 20,000 spectators. scored the home side's only goal in the 22nd minute, but and replied for the visitors in the second half, marking the stadium's inaugural fixture and highlighting its readiness for high-profile encounters. The first competitive victory at the venue came in the Hungarian NB I on 24 August 2014, when defeated 3–1. Busai opened the scoring in the 13th minute, followed by goals from and Leonardo, securing a 3–1 win that established the as a fortress for domestic league play. ' European competitive debut at the occurred on 9 2015 in the first qualifying round second leg against , resulting in a 4–1 victory (aggregate 5–2). Goals from (two), Dániel Böde, and Zsolt Haraszti advanced the club to the next round, providing valuable experience for future continental campaigns despite the overall elimination later in the tournament. (primary source: match report via uefa.com archives for 2015/16 season.) The stadium's highest-scoring home match to date took place on 20 April 2025 in the NB I, where thrashed 7–0, setting a club record for margin of victory at the venue. Goals were scored by Alekszandar Pesic (two), (two), Alex Tóth, Lenny Joseph, and , underscoring the team's dominance in domestic competitions during their ongoing title streak. In the 2024–25 season, achieved a notable in the league phase with a 3–1 home win over Ludogorets on 6 November 2025, their first victory in this format at the . Goals from G. Kanichowsky, another player, and Leo Joseph secured the points, boosting the club's European standing and demonstrating improved competitiveness on the continental stage.

National Team and Cup Finals

The Groupama Aréna served as the temporary home venue for the Hungarian national football team from its opening in 2014 until 2019, hosting a total of 23 matches during key qualification campaigns for , the , , and the inaugural . This period marked a revival in Hungarian football, with the stadium's modern facilities and passionate fan support contributing to memorable performances, including the team's qualification for Euro 2016 after a 44-year absence. Notable fixtures included the Euro 2016 play-off second leg against on 15 November 2015, where Hungary secured a 2-1 victory to advance, and various qualifiers that drew fervent crowds despite the venue's capacity limit of around 22,000 seats for international games. The atmosphere at national team matches was renowned for its intensity, with supporters creating an intimidating environment that boosted team morale and pressured opponents. The highest recorded attendance was 21,800 for the 2018 qualifier against on 3 September 2017, a tense 0-1 defeat that highlighted the stadium's electric energy despite the result. The final national team game at the arena was a 1-0 victory over in a Euro 2020 qualifier on 11 June 2019, with Máté Pátkai's late goal in front of 18,350 fans sealing a crucial win. Following the completion of the larger in late 2019, all subsequent home internationals shifted there to accommodate greater crowds. In addition to international fixtures, the Groupama Aréna has been a prominent host for Magyar Kupa finals, establishing itself as a neutral venue for these high-stakes domestic clashes from 2015 onward. The 2014–15 final saw Ferencváros triumph 4–0 over Diósgyőr on 20 May 2015, with goals from Leonardo, Gergő Lovrencsics (two), and Zoltán Gera, drawing a lively crowd to celebrate the home team's dominance. Subsequent finals included the 2015–16 edition, where Videoton edged Ferencváros 1–0 on 14 May 2016; the 2016–17 final, a 2–1 Ferencváros win against MTK Budapest on 31 May 2017; the 2017–18 clash ending in Újpest's 1–0 victory over Puskás Akadémia on 23 May 2018; and the 2018–19 final, where Honvéd defeated Videoton 1–0 on 25 May 2019. These events up to 2019 showcased the stadium's suitability for cup deciders, with post-2019 finals relocating to the Puskás Aréna for expanded capacity. The finals often featured intense rivalries and contributed to the venue's reputation for hosting decisive, atmosphere-driven encounters in Hungarian football.

Attendance and Statistics

Average Attendances

The average attendance at Ferencváros Stadion for Ferencvárosi TC's home matches in the has shown steady growth since the stadium's opening in 2014, reflecting the club's on-field success and improved fan engagement. In the 2014–15 season, the average stood at approximately 8,500 spectators per match, marking a significant increase from the club's previous venue, where figures hovered around 5,000 to 6,000 in the early . By the 2024–25 season, this had risen to 11,493, driven by consistent title challenges and broader appeal. Key factors influencing these trends include the club's multiple league titles, such as the 2018–19 and 2022–23 NB I victories, which correlated with attendance peaks like the 10,715 average in 2019. European campaigns have also boosted numbers, with home legs in often drawing crowds exceeding 18,000, such as the 18,789 for a 2025 Europa League match against Ludogorets Razgrad. Derby fixtures against rivals like further elevate turnout, frequently approaching sell-outs with over 18,000 spectators in recent home derbies. The disrupted this upward trajectory temporarily; the 2020–21 season saw a reduced average of about 7,623 across the limited home games with spectators due to restrictions, but post-recovery figures rebounded strongly, reaching 8,709 in 2021–22 and stabilizing above 10,000 thereafter. Into the 2025–26 season, data as of November 2025 indicates levels at 10,376 after six home matches, suggesting continued growth amid the club's ongoing dominance and above the league average of around 4,500.
SeasonAverage Home AttendanceNotes
2014–158,500Post-stadium opening rise
2018–1910,715Title-winning season peak
2020–217,623COVID-impacted (limited games)
2021–228,709Post-COVID rebound
2024–2511,493Recent high with European involvement
2025–26 (partial, as of Nov 2025)10,376After 6 matches; ongoing trend

Match Statistics

Since its opening in 2014, has maintained an impressive home record at the stadium in the (NB I), with a win percentage exceeding 70% across approximately 180 league matches through the early 2025–26 season. This dominance reflects the team's consistent performance on home soil. In these fixtures, has scored over goals while conceding under 150, resulting in an average of more than 3 total goals per match and establishing the venue as a fortress for domestic encounters. In European competitions, the stadium has hosted around 15 matches for up to the 2024–25 season, yielding a competitive record against international opposition, though challenges in progression stages have been evident. For the national team, the venue has been the site of 27 matches since 2014, including key qualification efforts during the Aréna's reconstruction from 2017 to 2019, contributing positively to their campaigns. Disciplinary metrics at the stadium highlight its role in promoting fair play, with home games in the NB I averaging 0.1 red cards per match, attributed to the modern facilities that support controlled environments and efficient officiating. Attendance figures, averaging over 10,000 spectators per league match, underscore the venue's draw for fans alongside these performance trends.

Location and Transport

Location

The , commonly known as Groupama Aréna, is situated at Üllői út 129, 1091 , in the district (IX. kerület) of . This places it on the Pest side of the Danube River, in the southeastern part of the city. The stadium's precise coordinates are 47°28′32″N 19°05′45″E, positioning it within a dense urban environment that includes residential neighborhoods, office buildings, hospitals, and retail areas. It lies adjacent to Népliget Park, one of Budapest's largest green spaces, as well as nearby commercial zones that contribute to the area's vibrant, mixed-use character. Historically, the current stadium was constructed on the site of the former Albert Flórián Stadion, which served as Ferencváros TC's home from 1974 until its demolition in 2013. Approximately 3 km southeast of Budapest's city center, the venue is also directly next to the Népliget metro station, facilitating connectivity to the broader transport network.

Access and Connectivity

The Groupama Aréna, home to Ferencváros Stadion, benefits from excellent public transportation connectivity in Budapest's ninth district. The primary access point is Népliget station on 3 (blue line), located just 100 meters from the main entrance, offering a mere two-minute walk for arrivals. This station connects directly to the city center, with trains running every few minutes during peak hours. Complementing this, line 1 stops at Népliget, providing service from central every 10 minutes until nearly midnight, making it a convenient option for evening events. Additionally, trams on line 3 serve the nearby Határ út stop, approximately 1.5 kilometers away, allowing for a 20-minute walk or short connection via metro. Bus services further enhance accessibility, with lines 54 and 55 stopping at Eke utca, a short walk from the stadium, ideal for routes from southern districts. Other frequent options include bus lines 83 and 254E, which halt near Népliget, integrating seamlessly with the metro and tram networks operated by BKK, Budapest's public transport authority. These services operate extended hours on match days to accommodate crowds. For drivers, the arena provides 480 on-site spaces, with additional facilities in the surrounding area accommodating up to several thousand more during non-peak times. fees are set at 500 HUF per , and reservations are recommended for VIP or event-specific access. Shuttle services are often arranged for major matches, such as complimentary buses from central meeting points to manage post-game traffic, as seen during fixtures. Cycling and walking options support sustainable access, with several MOL Bubi public bike-sharing stations located in the immediate vicinity, allowing riders to lock up at designated racks near the entrances. Pedestrian paths along Üllői út and adjacent streets facilitate safe walks from nearby residential areas. On event days, BKK implements , including partial road closures on Üllői út to prioritize pedestrian and flow, while the BKK Futár app offers real-time navigation and updates for optimal routing in the 2020s.

References

Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.