Saturday, 5 Oct 2024

Metalist Stadium: FC Metalist 1925 Kharkiv

To fully understand the journey of Shakhtar Donetsk and their current home, Metalist Stadium in Kharkiv, it’s important to take a closer look at their recent history. Shakhtar Donetsk initially moved into their newly built stadium, Donbass Arena, in 2009, and just three years later, the stadium was chosen to host matches in the 2012 European Championships, including quarter-final and semi-final matches.

However, conflict broke out in the Donbass region in 2014, forcing Shakhtar Donetsk to relocate their operations to Lviv Arena, which was more than six hundred miles away from their original home. They played their games there until 2016 when they finally settled in Metalist Stadium in Kharkiv.

Metalist Stadium, the former home of Ukrainian club Metalist Kharkiv, became available for Shakhtar Donetsk when Metalist Kharkiv ceased operations at the end of 2016. In early 2017, a new club named Metalist 1925 was formed, sharing the stadium with Shakhtar Donetsk. However, for the purposes of this article, we will solely focus on Shakhtar Donetsk.

Metalist Stadium Stats

  • Year Opened: 1926
  • Capacity: 40,003
  • Average Attendance: 10,124
  • Record Attendance: 41,973 (Metalist v Tavria, 1980)
  • Pitch Size: 105 x 68 meters
  • Nickname: OSC Metalist
  • Former Name: Tractor Stadium, Dzerzhinets Stadium
  • Owner: Kharkiv city council
  • Clubs Hosted: Metalist Kharkiv, Shakhtar Donetsk, Metalist 1925
  • First Fixture: Metalist v Dnipropretovsk (12/09/1926)

Metalist Stadium Photos

Metalist Stadium

Metalist Stadium Seating Plan and Where to Sit

Metalist Stadium features a bowl-style design with two tiers of seating. The largest sections are located at the Northern and Southern ends of the ground, behind the goals. If you’re interested in the hospitality experience, the major hospitality section is situated within the West stand, running alongside the pitch.

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Getting To Metalist Stadium

Train

If you’re traveling to Kharkiv by train, be prepared for a journey that takes over two days. The stadium is located to the South-East of the city center, with the closest station on the Metro being Sportyvna, which is on the Red Line.

Bus

For those who prefer traveling by bus, there are several options available. Bus numbers 251e, 626, 1155, 1167, 1181, 1316, and 1622, among others, stop within walking distance of the stadium.

Car

If you prefer driving, the nearest major road to the stadium is the M18. It is well signposted, making it easy to find your way.

By Air

Kharkiv International Airport is the closest airport to the city center. It’s less than a mile away, making it an ideal choice for those flying in to watch a Shakhtar Donetsk match.

Taxi

A taxi ride to the stadium takes approximately fifteen minutes and costs around 30 Hryvnia.

Parking Near Metalist Stadium

There are numerous parking areas in and around the stadium, so arriving early should ensure you find a space without any issues.

Metalist Stadium Hotels

If you’re looking for accommodation near Metalist Stadium, here are some options to consider:

Pubs and Bars Near Metalist Stadium

If you’re looking for a place to grab a drink or bite to eat before or after the match, here are a few recommended options:

Hospitality

Despite not being the original home of Shakhtar Donetsk, Metalist Stadium offers a range of hospitality options. The ground features eighteen Sky Boxes capable of hosting six to twenty people each. The Shakhtar Lounge can accommodate approximately three hundred people, offering excellent food. The Roof Club, located near the stadium’s roof, is a restaurant. Club 1936, the stadium’s sports bar, can house around four hundred people.

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Private Hire

If you’re planning an event in Kharkiv, Metalist Stadium offers excellent facilities. Get in touch with the club to discuss your requirements, as they are well-equipped to accommodate meetings and other private occasions.

Stadium Tours & Museum

Currently, Metalist Stadium does not offer stadium tours or have a dedicated museum. However, should that change in the future, we will keep you informed.

Metalist Stadium History

Metalist Stadium is situated within the larger Metalist Oblast Sports Complex. The first sports venue on the site was built in 1926, occupying the former location of the Holy Spirit Cemetery. Initially named Tractor Stadium due to sponsorship by a local tractor production company, it was later renamed Dzerzhynets Stadium in 1940, honoring Felix Dzerzhinsky, the first head of the Russian state security organization Cheka. In 1967, the stadium was expanded and its current name, Metalist Stadium, was adopted.

Major renovations took place in the late 2000s to prepare the stadium for hosting matches in the 2012 European Championships. These renovations included the completion of the South stand and the construction of a new East stand. The stadium underwent further renovations and cosmetic changes, making it suitable for hosting a Ukrainian Premier League side like Shakhtar Donetsk in 2016.

Future Developments

At present, there are no major development plans for Metalist Stadium. However, if any changes are made, particularly if Shakhtar Donetsk establishes it as their long-term home, we will update this section accordingly.

FAQs

1. Are stadium tours available at Metalist Stadium?

Currently, Metalist Stadium does not offer stadium tours. However, should this change in the future, we will provide updates.

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2. What is the history of Metalist Stadium?

Metalist Stadium has a long history, with its first iteration built in 1926. Over the years, the stadium underwent significant renovations and expansions, culminating in extensive work ahead of the 2012 European Championships.

3. Can Metalist Stadium be hired for private events?

Yes, Metalist Stadium offers private hire options for events. Their facilities are well-equipped to accommodate various occasions, so feel free to get in touch with the club for more information.

4. Where can I park near Metalist Stadium?

There are several parking areas in and around the stadium, providing ample space for visitors. Arriving early should ensure you find suitable parking without any issues.

5. What are the hospitality options at Metalist Stadium?

Metalist Stadium offers various hospitality options, including Sky Boxes, the Shakhtar Lounge, the Roof Club, and Club 1936, a sports bar. Each option provides a unique experience for fans looking for premium matchday hospitality.

Conclusion

Metalist Stadium in Kharkiv has become the temporary home of Shakhtar Donetsk, following their relocation from Donbass Arena due to the conflict in the Donbass region. Despite the geographical distance between Kharkiv and their original home, Metalist Stadium has provided a suitable venue for the club. With its rich history and available amenities, Metalist Stadium continues to welcome football fans from all over to enjoy the thrill of Shakhtar Donetsk matches. For more information about Shakhtar Donetsk, visit Movin993.