The Stade Velodrome, also known as the Orange Velodrome for sponsorship reasons, has been the beloved home of Olympique de Marseille since its opening in 1937. It has played host to prestigious events like the 1998 World Cup and the 2007 Rugby World Cup. With a capacity of 67,394, it stands as the largest club football stadium in France, second only to the Stade de France.
A Historic Legacy
Founded in 1899, Olympique de Marseille has established itself as one of the most successful clubs in French football. They have clinched the Ligue 1 title nine times and hold the record for the most wins in the Coupe de France, with an impressive tally of ten victories. What sets them apart is their triumph in the Champions League, becoming the first and only French club to achieve this feat in 1993.
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Unveiling Stade Velodrome
The Stands and Seating Plan
The Stade Velodrome follows a classic bowl-style design, with four stands known as Tribune Jean Bouin, Tribune Ganay, Virage Sud, and Virage Nord. The Nord and Sud stands are the vibrant sections where devoted Marseille fans congregate, while the Tribune Ganay houses visiting supporters. The stadium embraces a three-tier structure, though the Nord and Sud stands appear as one unified area.
Discovering Ticket Prices
Ticketing at the Stade Velodrome has seen significant changes, with the club now directly handling ticket sales since the 2016-2017 season. Prices vary depending on the seating section and the match. Generally, for Ligue 1 matches, tickets range from €17 to €60. High-profile matches and European competitions may have higher price points.
FAQs
How can I purchase Olympique de Marseille tickets?
To secure your tickets, visit the official Olympique de Marseille website. You can also find tickets at the stadium’s ticket office and the club’s store in the city center. Francebillet, Ticketnet, and Digitick also provide online and city outlets for ticket purchases.
Where can I find additional ticket vendors?
You can check Ticket Compare for additional ticket vendors.
Accessing the Stade Velodrome
Located slightly outside the city center, the Stade Velodrome is easily accessible thanks to Marseille’s efficient Metro system.
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Train: Traveling from the UK, take the Eurostar to Paris, followed by a French train to Marseille. Alight at either Rond-Point du Prado or Sainte Marguerite Dromel stations, both within walking distance of the stadium.
Bus: Saint-Charles serves as both the main train and bus station in Marseille, making it a convenient starting point for bus transportation to the Stade Velodrome. However, the train remains the optimal mode of travel.
Car: If you choose to fly to Marseille, driving to the stadium is straightforward. Access the A55 if you are originating from the north of the city.
By Air: Marseille Provence Airport, located approximately 27 km from the city center, offers excellent connections to the Stade Velodrome through shuttle buses and trains.
Taxi: Taxi services are available from various points, including Saint-Charles station. Costs may range from €20 to €50, depending on traffic conditions.
Parking Nearby
Ample parking options near the Stade Velodrome are available for a reasonable fee.
Stade Velodrome Hotels
Marseille, the European Capital of Culture in 2013, offers a wide range of hotel choices. With an influx of resources and improvements, the city presents numerous options for your stay.
Unwind at Pubs and Bars
Marseille’s delightful weather and vibrant outdoor culture provide the perfect backdrop for numerous bars with pleasant terraces and beer gardens. Here are some recommended establishments:
Unparalleled Facilities
Following recent renovations, the Stade Velodrome now boasts enhanced facilities in line with UEFA’s expectations for Euro championships stadiums. Views from all seats are exceptional, and while large food and drink outlets are limited, small sandwich bars are scattered throughout the ground.
Exquisite Hospitality
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The Stade Velodrome offers multiple hospitality boxes, providing a range of options for visitors seeking a premium experience. Contacting the club directly will provide comprehensive details to ensure an unforgettable trip. The Table of Legends, a private area, offers a gourmet buffet and a panoramic view of the pitch, where former players join you in the ambiance. The Pub Heineken, located in the Tribune Ganay, offers an English-style pub experience with a pitch view and classic Europop tunes spun by a DJ.
Private Hire
Private hire options may be available at the Stade Velodrome, though details are limited. We recommend contacting the club directly for personalized assistance.
Stadium Tours and Museum
Experience the Stade Velodrome firsthand through guided tours. A tour ticket costs €18 for adults, children, students, and concessions alike. Explore the panoramic lounge, the press room, the dressing rooms, and even the tunnel leading to the pitch. Tours operate throughout the week from 10am to 7pm for approximately 90 minutes. Visit the Marseille tourist board’s website for tour schedules.
About Olympique de Marseille
Olympique de Marseille’s rich history includes being the only French team to win the Champions League and the record holder for Coupe de France victories. The club faced challenging times in the aftermath of their Champions League triumph, enduring relegation to the second tier and having their domestic trophy revoked. However, they made a triumphant comeback in 2010, securing the Ligue 1 title with Didier Deschamps at the managerial helm. Under the ownership of Robert Louis-Dreyfus, the club thrived, with his wife Margarita becoming the majority shareholder after his passing.
Tracing Stade Velodrome’s Evolution
From 1904 to 1937, Marseille played their home games at the Stade de l’Huveaune. Despite its limited capacity of 15,000, the stadium held great sentimental value for supporters, who even contributed funds for renovations in the 1920s. In 1937, the invitation to move to the Stade Velodrome was initially met with resistance, as fans mockingly referred to it as the ‘stage of the City Council’. The stadium’s name originates from the cycling track that once encircled the pitch. Over time, the stands expanded, absorbing the track and transforming the venue into a celebrated sporting arena.
Throughout the years, the Stade Velodrome underwent significant transformations, including extensive renovations in the early 1970s, increasing capacity and installing new floodlights. Additional renovations occurred for the 1984 European Championships and the 1998 World Cup, raising capacity to over 60,000 and hosting key matches. To meet UEFA standards for the 2016 Euros, the stadium underwent yet another renovation, achieving the status of a UEFA Elite Stadium with the addition of a roof and capacity upgrades.
Future Prospects
Given the recent renovations for the 2016 Euros, there are currently no further development plans for the Stade Velodrome. However, the Mayor of Marseille has expressed interest in selling the stadium, though no concrete plans have been announced.
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Conclusion
The Stade Velodrome stands as an iconic symbol of Olympique de Marseille’s legacy and passion. Its rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and warm hospitality beckon football enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a curious traveler, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, a visit to the Stade Velodrome promises an adventure like no other. Explore the heart and soul of French football at this magnificent sporting landmark.
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