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Saputo Stadium
Saputo Stadium
Saputo Stadium
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Saputo Stadium (French: Stade Saputo) is a soccer-specific stadium at Olympic Park in the borough of Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The stadium opened on May 21, 2008, and is the current home of CF Montréal (formerly the Montreal Impact). The stadium is built on the former practice track and field site on the grounds of the 1976 Summer Olympics, while the stadium's east side has a view of Olympic Stadium's inclined tower. It has a capacity of 19,619,[1] making it the second-largest soccer-specific stadium in Canada, after BMO Field in Toronto.

Key Information

Construction

[edit]

The stadium cost CA$17 million ($23.4 million in 2023 dollars)[6] to build, with $7.5 million paid by the Saputo family and the rest financed on a 25-year term.[7] Saputo Stadium is now CF Montréal's administrative headquarters and also includes a training field, 34 corporate suites and full player welfare areas. The complex covers approximately 150,000 square metres (1,600,000 sq ft). It was designed and fabricated by Dant Clayton Corporation and built by Broccolini Construction Inc.

The stadium features a natural grass playing surface and was reportedly preferred over BMO Field and its then-artificial turf by members of the Canada men's national soccer team.[8] BMO Field has since installed a heated and irrigated hybrid (mixed artificial and natural grass) field.[9]

Anticipating a Montreal entry into Major League Soccer, plans were made to expand the stadium from its initial 13,034 capacity to 20,000 to cope with the anticipated boost in attendance.[10][11] The Quebec government put $23 million for the renovation and expansion of the stadium (the total cost of the stadium was therefore about $40 million). The construction plans went into effect after MLS granted Montreal their nineteenth franchise, which began play in the 2012 season.[12]

Sports usage

[edit]

The stadium welcomed its first Impact home game on May 19, 2008, a scoreless draw against the Vancouver Whitecaps. The Impact's first goal in the stadium was scored by Rocco Placentino against the Charleston Battery on June 13, 2008. This also gave the Impact its first victory in the stadium, with a score of 1–0. The Impact's first game in the newly renovated and expanded Saputo was played on June 16, 2012, against the Seattle Sounders FC. The Impact won the game 4–1.

The only official international matches played at Saputo Stadium were two matches played by Canada men's national soccer team during the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification (CONCACAF).

[edit]
  • View inside the stadium prior to expansion
    View inside the stadium prior to expansion
  • Saputo Stadium at night prior to expansion
    Saputo Stadium at night prior to expansion
  • Stadium in 2010 prior to expansion
    Stadium in 2010 prior to expansion
  • Home match against New York Red Bulls in 2012
    Home match against New York Red Bulls in 2012
  • Goal celebration against D.C. United in 2012
    Goal celebration against D.C. United in 2012
  • Stadium in July 2012 after expansion
    Stadium in July 2012 after expansion

See also

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References

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[edit]
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Saputo Stadium

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from Grokipedia
Saputo Stadium, known in French as Stade Saputo, is a soccer-specific stadium located in Olympic Park in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It serves as the home venue for CF Montréal of Major League Soccer (MLS), with a current seating capacity of 19,619, making it the second-largest soccer-specific stadium in Canada after BMO Field in Toronto. The stadium features a natural grass field measuring 120 yards by 75 yards, 36 corporate boxes, and amenities including 110 food concessions and over 6,900 seats under a partial roof covering. Constructed in 2007 at a cost of CA$17 million, with CA$7.5 million contributed by the Saputo family—who hold naming rights through their company, Saputo Inc.—the stadium opened on May 19, 2008, with an initial capacity of 13,034 for a match between CF Montréal (then known as the Montreal Impact) and the Vancouver Whitecaps in the USL First Division. Ownership is held by Saputo Inc., which has funded over 70% of the total development costs for the stadium and adjacent training facilities, amounting to CA$82 million across multiple phases. The venue was expanded in 2011–2012 at a cost of CA$23 million, partly funded by the Quebec government, adding approximately 7,000 seats, enhanced corporate areas, and the roof structure to accommodate MLS standards; the renovated stadium hosted its first MLS match on June 16, 2012. Beyond CF Montréal's MLS regular-season games, Canadian Championship matches, and Leagues Cup fixtures, Saputo Stadium has hosted international events, including games for the and Concacaf Champions League contests. Accessible via the Viau and Pie-IX subway stations with 4,000 parking spaces available, it is situated on the site of the former track and field practice facility from the .

History and Background

Site Origins

The site of Saputo Stadium, located at coordinates 45°33′47″N 73°33′9″W within Montreal's Olympic Park, originally functioned as the practice venue for the . This auxiliary facility supported training and warm-up activities for athletes during the , positioned just north of the primary to facilitate efficient access for competitors. Following the conclusion of the 1976 Olympics, the site remained part of the Olympic Park complex. By 2006, the underutilized site was selected for repurposing as a dedicated soccer stadium, aligning with the Montreal Impact's efforts to secure a Major League Soccer franchise and elevate professional soccer in the city. This initiative replaced the former athletic grounds with a modern venue designed to meet league standards, marking a significant redevelopment within the historic Olympic Park precinct.

Naming and Development Context

Saputo Stadium is named after the Saputo family, prominent Canadian business figures who own the dairy and food processing conglomerate . The family contributed CA$7.5 million toward the stadium's initial construction, which totaled approximately CA$17 million and was financed entirely through private funds. This donation reflected their long-standing involvement in Montreal's soccer scene, as , a key family member, had founded and owned the Montreal Impact since December 10, 1992. The stadium's ownership resides with Saputo Inc., while day-to-day operations are managed by , the soccer club formerly known as the Montreal Impact. This arrangement underscores the integrated relationship between the team's ownership and the venue, ensuring alignment with the club's needs as its primary user. The development of Saputo Stadium arose from the Montreal Impact's evolution through North American soccer leagues, starting in the American Professional Soccer League (a precursor to the ) in 1993, progressing to the , and joining the North American Soccer League in 2011 before entering as an expansion franchise in 2012. Prior to a dedicated venue, the team played in multi-purpose facilities like the , which lacked optimal soccer-specific features, prompting the need for a purpose-built to support ambitions for top-tier play and enhance fan experience. Announced in July 2006 amid the club's pursuit of MLS entry, the represented a pivotal step in elevating 's soccer infrastructure within the Olympic Park grounds, which hosted the . The initial funding model highlighted private investment's role, with the Saputo family's contribution covering nearly half the costs, supplemented by commercial partnerships and loans. This approach allowed to proceed independently of public subsidies at the outset, positioning the stadium as a cornerstone for the city's growing soccer culture.

Construction and Expansions

Initial Construction (2007–2008)

The of Saputo Stadium began with on April 18, 2007, at the site of a former outdoor track within Montreal's Olympic Park, originally developed for the . The project was led by architects Zinno Zappitelli Architectes, with Construction Inc. serving as the general contractor. Designed as a featuring three stands, the venue was entirely privately funded, with a total initial cost of CA$17 million, including a CA$7.5 million donation from the Saputo family. Construction progressed rapidly over the following year, transforming the site into a modern facility with an original of 13,034. The playing field measured 110 by 70 meters (approximately 120 by 77 yards) and was surfaced with natural grass to meet professional soccer standards. The stadium officially opened on May 19, 2008, with its inaugural match that day, when the Montreal Impact hosted the Vancouver Whitecaps in a 0–0 draw. This event marked the completion of the initial build phase, providing the team with its first dedicated home venue.

2012 Expansion

In 2011, as the Montreal Impact prepared for its entry into (MLS) in 2012, plans for a significant expansion of Saputo Stadium were unveiled to meet league requirements for increased and facilities. Announced on March 10, 2011, the project aimed to transform the venue from a NASL-standard stadium into a suitable MLS home, with construction delayed but ultimately starting in September 2011 after resolving logistical issues, including the relocation of a nearby concrete structure. The expansion primarily involved constructing a new fourth stand on the east side, adding over 7,000 seats and closing the gap between the existing west and east sections to enhance the stadium's enclosure. Costing CA$23 million, the project received full funding through a grant from the government, enabling the addition of corporate suites—increasing from 16 to 34—and other improvements such as expanded concession points and partial roofing to cover about one-third of the seats. This brought the total capacity from the original 13,034 to 20,341, with a focus on better fan experience through improved structural integration. The renovated stadium reopened on June 16, 2012, hosting its inaugural MLS match that evening, where the Impact defeated the 4-1 in front of a near-capacity crowd. This event marked not only the stadium's transformation but also the Impact's first home victory in MLS, solidifying Saputo Stadium's role as a premier soccer venue in .

Post-2012 Renovations

Following the 2012 expansion that increased the stadium's capacity from 13,034 to 20,341 seats, Saputo Stadium underwent further upgrades to improve fan amenities and operational efficiency. Subsequent renovations, including enhancements to premium areas, have adjusted the to 19,619 as of 2025. In 2017, significant enhancements were made to the venue's layout, including a comprehensive makeover of concourse areas to expand food and boutique spaces, introduce new culinary options, install additional video screens for better visibility, and implement cashless payment systems to streamline transactions. In 2025, renovations focused on premium seating and hospitality areas to elevate the supporter experience. A key addition was the renovation of a above section 113, sponsored by Jameson, which created exclusive fan spaces featuring a cozy atmosphere with bar service for game-day enjoyment. Other updates included revamping the President's Club with refined and bar offerings, as well as introducing a new quick-service concession stand. Additional post-2012 developments enhanced the stadium's supporting infrastructure. In 2013, a synthetic training field measuring 68 by 110 meters was completed adjacent to the main entrance, utilizing technology with a FIFA 2-star certification; it serves the professional team, academy programs, and local university squads, with plans for locker rooms and grandstands. The stadium's natural grass pitch, measuring 120 by 75 yards, receives ongoing maintenance to preserve its high-quality surface, which has been praised for supporting elite-level play. Across all phases since its 2008 opening, including construction, the 2012 expansion, and subsequent renovations up to 2013, the total investment in Saputo Stadium reached CA$47 million, primarily funded privately by the Saputo family with some support for the expansion; additional investments have been made since.

Design and Facilities

Architectural Features

Saputo Stadium exemplifies a soccer-specific , constructed entirely for the without adaptations for other uses, featuring open corners that enhance natural light penetration and airflow throughout the venue. This open-ended layout contributes to an intimate atmosphere while allowing fresh air circulation and unobstructed sightlines for spectators. The stadium comprises four principal stands—north, south, west (the original structure), and east (added in )—arranged around the natural grass pitch. The east side provides a prominent view of the inclined tower within Olympic Park, integrating the venue with its surrounding urban landscape. A partial roof structure overhangs only the upper tiers of the stands, offering shelter to a portion of seating while maintaining an open feel. The construction employs a framework supporting aluminum and cladding, which not only ensures but also amplifies crowd noise through resonant metal surfaces. Located in the west stand, 36 corporate suites provide premium viewing areas integrated into the primary . Adjacent to the stadium lies a dedicated synthetic turf training field, primarily utilized by the academy for youth development programs.

Capacity and Amenities

Saputo Stadium has a current seating capacity of 19,619, following expansions that increased it from an initial 13,034 seats upon opening in 2008. Of these, 6,948 seats are located under the stadium's roof for weather protection. The stadium offers a range of visitor amenities designed to enhance the matchday experience. Concession stands, numbering 110 in total, provide diverse food options including local Quebec specialties such as , sandwiches, and , alongside standard stadium fare like burgers and hot dogs. As of April 2025, the venue operates cashless, accepting only credit and debit cards for purchases, including raffles. New concessions include "Le Dep" under section 123 for quick snacks. Premium areas feature updates such as a renovated BMO Pavilion restaurant with gourmet table service and an expanded wine and cocktail list; a revamped President's Club above section 123 with improved buffet and bar service; a renovated Members’ Corner under section 123 serving as a hub; and a refreshed Jameson Mezzanine above section 113 offering a atmosphere. The 1993 Terrasse, renamed to honor the club's founding, is open to general admission. Family-friendly areas include the Saputo Family Corner in sections 116-119, featuring a , soccer play pen, and other child-oriented activities, as well as the Milk2Go Active Zone between sections 116 and 118 for interactive games and movement. An away fan section is designated in the top rows of section 112 to accommodate visiting supporters. The venue is equipped with comprehensive coverage via a high-performance network, upgraded in 2020 to support fan connectivity and in-stadium experiences like live , which as of 2025 includes access to , BPM Sports, or TSN 690 broadcasts via the stadium . Accessibility features ensure inclusivity for all patrons. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in dedicated sections 116 and 130, row A, with companion seating and unobstructed views guaranteed. Sustainability elements include a natural grass pitch measuring 120 yards by 75 yards, maintained to support high-quality play while aligning with traditional soccer standards.

Usage and Events

Primary Tenant: CF Montréal

, formerly the Montreal Impact, has served as the primary tenant of Saputo Stadium since the venue's opening in 2008, initially competing in the from 2008 to 2010 and the North American Soccer League in 2011 before joining in 2012 following a major expansion to support professional play at the higher level. The club rebranded to in January 2021 to better align with its identity as a dedicated soccer organization in the city. The stadium has hosted numerous notable matches for the team, including its inaugural MLS contest at the renovated facility—a 4-1 victory over on June 16, 2012—and a 2-1 home win against on July 18, 2012, which highlighted the venue's role in early successes. Attendance records underscore the strong fan base cultivated at Saputo Stadium, with record attendances of 19,619 ( capacity) for sold-out home matches, such as the October 10, 2025, international friendly against , while the team averaged 15,905 spectators per home game in the season. As a soccer-specific venue, Saputo Stadium has been instrumental in elevating CF Montréal's fan support and on-field performance by creating an electric, intimate environment that strengthens the bond between players and supporters, leading to improved home results and sustained enthusiasm. This atmosphere has been described as a "" for the club, directly contributing to its competitive edge in MLS through heightened passion and consistent crowds.

Other Sports and Non-Soccer Events

Saputo Stadium has served as a venue for various international soccer matches, including several featuring the Canada men's national team, as well as the Canada women's national team, including a 2–0 victory over Mexico on June 1, 2024. During the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, the stadium hosted a CONCACAF Stage III match on September 6, 2008, where Honduras defeated Canada 2-1 with second-half goals from Ramón Núñez securing the comeback victory. More recently, on October 10, 2025, Canada faced Australia in an international friendly at the stadium, suffering a 1-0 loss in their first home match in Montreal since 2017 before a sold-out crowd of 19,619. The venue also accommodated the 2015 , France's annual soccer super cup contest between champions Paris Saint-Germain and winners , held on August 1, 2015. PSG claimed a 2-0 win with goals from and , drawing an attendance of 20,057 and marking the seventh time the event occurred outside . Beyond international soccer, Saputo Stadium has occasionally hosted other sports events, though such occurrences remain infrequent compared to its primary role in professional soccer. Non-athletic uses, including concerts and community festivals, are limited, with the stadium's design prioritizing soccer-specific functionality and few major non-sporting events recorded as of November 2025, when no such activities were scheduled.

Access and Surroundings

Location and Transportation

Saputo Stadium is situated at 4750 Sherbrooke Street East in , , within the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough and forming part of Olympic Park. The venue lies approximately 7 km east of , providing easy access for city residents and visitors. From its east side, the stadium offers clear views of the adjacent . Public transportation to Saputo Stadium is highly accessible via the (STM) network. The Viau metro station on the green line is just a 3-minute walk from the entrance, while the nearby Pie-IX station, also on the green line, is about a 10-minute walk away. Several STM bus routes connect directly to the site, including lines 55 (along Street), 139 (Pie-IX Boulevard), and 97 (Avenue du Mont-Royal). These options make the stadium reachable from central hubs like Berri-UQAM in under 20 minutes by metro. Olympic Park, the stadium's host site, originated as a key venue for the 1976 Summer Olympics.

Parking and Accessibility

Saputo Stadium provides limited on-site parking options, directing most visitors to the adjacent Olympic Park facilities for vehicle accommodation. The Olympic Park features six underground parking lots with a total capacity of approximately 4,000 spaces, including lots P1 through P4, which are situated about a 15-minute walk from the stadium entrance. Pre-booking is required for major events to secure a spot, available online for $25 or $30 upon arrival on site. Overflow parking is managed through additional Olympic Park lots during high-attendance matches, helping to alleviate congestion around the venue. Primary vehicular access occurs via Sherbrooke Street East, though event days often experience substantial traffic volumes due to the influx of spectators. Authorities promote carpooling and alternative modes of arrival to mitigate delays, with recommendations to plan routes in advance. For accessibility, designated drop-off zones are available along surrounding roads for and rideshare services, facilitating easier entry for those not on site. Bike racks are installed throughout Olympic Park, including within lot P2, to support cycling arrivals, while dedicated rideshare pick-up areas are positioned near the stadium perimeter. These measures address the high demand during games, where fills quickly and early planning is essential. The venue's close proximity to the Viau Metro station further enhances options for non-driving visitors.

References

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