Stadionul Ion Oblemenco (Craiova)

Stadionul Ion Oblemenco is a multipurpose stadium located in Craiova, Romania. It serves as the home ground for Universitatea Craiova, a professional football club, as well as for other sporting events and concerts.

General information

Arena capacity: 30,983 spectators

Address: Bulevardul Ilie Balaci 8, Craiova 200182, Romania

GPS coordinates for the navigator: 44°19’50.2″N 23°47’28.1″E

Year of construction: 2017

Construction cost: €52 million

Field: grass lawn with dimensions of 105 x 68 m

Seating plan of Stadionul Ion Oblemenco

Stadionul Ion Oblemenco features several stands that offer a comfortable and immersive viewing experience for spectators.

• East Stand: The East Stand is situated on one side of the pitch and provides covered seating. It offers comfortable seats with excellent sightlines, ensuring spectators have a clear view of the action. This stand is favored by fans who prefer a relaxed and enjoyable viewing experience.
• West Stand: Located opposite the East Stand, the West Stand also provides covered seating. It offers similar seating arrangements as the East Stand, with comfortable seats and unobstructed views of the game. The West Stand is often occupied by a mix of home and away supporters, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere during matches.
• North Stand: Positioned behind one of the goals, the North Stand is known for its passionate and energetic home supporters. It offers both seating and standing areas, allowing fans to choose their preferred way of cheering on the team. The North Stand is the heart of the stadium’s fan culture, with dedicated supporter groups leading chants and creating an electric atmosphere.
• South Stand: The South Stand is located behind the opposite goal and is typically designated for away supporters. It provides a separate section for visiting fans, giving them their own space to support their team. The South Stand may offer both seating and standing areas, depending on the specific match or event.

The seating layout at Stadionul Ion Oblemenco caters to a variety of preferences, with comfortable seating options and sections for both seated and standing fans. This ensures that spectators can enjoy an immersive and engaging experience while supporting their team.

Where to buy tickets?

To purchase tickets for events at Stadionul Ion Oblemenco, you have a few options. The primary and most convenient method is to visit the official website of Universitatea Craiova or the sports club or team that is hosting the event. They usually have a dedicated ticketing section on their website where you can browse upcoming matches or events, select your desired seating category, and make a secure online purchase.

Alternatively, you can also buy tickets directly at the stadium’s ticket office. The ticket office is typically located near the entrance of the stadium and opens a few hours before the start of the event. This allows you to buy tickets in person and receive any additional information or assistance you may require.

It’s important to note that popular matches or events may sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to buy your tickets in advance to secure your preferred seats. Additionally, stay updated on any announcements or promotions regarding ticket sales through the club’s website or official social media channels.

If you prefer personalized assistance or have specific inquiries about ticket purchasing, you can also contact the club’s customer service or ticketing department directly. They will provide you with more detailed information and guide you through the ticketing process.

Always ensure that you check official sources for authorized ticket vendors to guarantee the validity of your tickets and avoid any unauthorized resellers or scalpers.

How to get there?

Stadionul Ion Oblemenco can be accessed through various transportation options. Here’s a general guide on how to reach the stadium:

By Car: If you’re traveling by car, you can use GPS or a navigation app to enter the stadium’s address and follow the directions. Stadionul Ion Oblemenco is typically well-signposted from major roads and highways in the area. The stadium has parking facilities available, but it’s advisable to arrive early as parking spaces may be limited, especially during high-demand events.

By Public Transportation: Craiova has a public transportation system that provides easy access to Stadionul Ion Oblemenco. You can take buses or trams to reach the stadium. The nearest bus or tram stations are located in the vicinity of the stadium. These public transportation options allow you to conveniently reach the stadium from various parts of the city.

By Foot or Bicycle: If you’re in the vicinity of Stadionul Ion Oblemenco, walking or cycling to the stadium is a viable option. Craiova has pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and cycling paths, making it pleasant to travel on foot or by bike. Look for signs indicating the direction to Stadionul Ion Oblemenco and follow the designated pedestrian or cycling routes.

It’s recommended to check for any specific transportation updates or additional information regarding match days or events at Stadionul Ion Oblemenco. The official website of Universitatea Craiova or the hosting club usually provides details on transportation options, including any special arrangements or recommendations for reaching the venue.

Where to eat and sleep?

There are several dining options available in the vicinity of Stadionul Ion Oblemenco, allowing visitors to explore a range of cuisines and dining experiences. Here are a few popular choices:

• Restaurant Casa cu Tei: Located near the stadium, Restaurant Casa cu Tei offers traditional Romanian cuisine in a cozy setting. It provides a diverse menu featuring local specialties and a warm atmosphere.
• Restaurant Şerban: Situated in the city center, Restaurant Şerban serves a mix of Romanian and international dishes. It offers a stylish ambiance and a varied menu that caters to different tastes.
• Restaurant La Cuptor: Positioned within walking distance of Stadionul Ion Oblemenco, Restaurant La Cuptor specializes in wood-fired pizzas and Italian cuisine. It provides a casual dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients.

Craiova also provides a range of accommodation options near Stadionul Ion Oblemenco. Here are a few hotels within a reasonable distance:

• Hotel Splendid: Located in the city center, this 4-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center. It provides a convenient and pleasant stay for visitors.
• Hotel Emma West: Situated near the stadium, this 3-star hotel features modern rooms, a bar, and a terrace. It offers a cozy atmosphere and easy access to the stadium.
• Park Hotel: This 2-star hotel is located within walking distance of Stadionul Ion Oblemenco. It provides simple and affordable rooms, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious travelers.

There are hotels of various categories, ranging from budget-friendly options to mid-range establishments, available in close proximity to the stadium. Some hotels may even offer special packages or discounts for sporting events or match days.

To find a comprehensive list of restaurants and accommodations near Stadionul Ion Oblemenco, check travel websites, hotel booking platforms, or the official tourism website of Craiova. These sources will help you discover options that suit your preferences and budget.

Facilities

Stadionul Ion Oblemenco offers a range of facilities to enhance the matchday experience for visitors. Here are some of the facilities available:

1. Hospitality Areas: The stadium provides hospitality areas where guests can enjoy premium amenities and services. These areas typically include exclusive seating, private lounges, catering options, and dedicated staff to ensure a high level of comfort and hospitality.
2. Concessions: Stadionul Ion Oblemenco features food and beverage concessions where spectators can purchase snacks, drinks, and meals. These concessions offer a variety of options, including traditional stadium food, fast food, and refreshments.
3. Restrooms: Adequate restroom facilities are available throughout the stadium for the convenience of visitors. These facilities are well-maintained and easily accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone.
4. Parking: Stadionul Ion Oblemenco provides parking facilities for spectators arriving by car. There are designated parking areas in close proximity to the stadium, making it convenient for visitors to access the venue.
5. Accessibility: The stadium strives to be accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. It offers accessible seating options, ramps or elevators for easy access, and accessible restroom facilities. Additionally, staff members are available to assist individuals with special needs and ensure their comfort and safety.
6. Merchandise: Stadionul Ion Oblemenco usually has merchandise outlets where fans can purchase team-related items, including jerseys, scarves, hats, and other memorabilia. These outlets allow supporters to show their allegiance and take home souvenirs of their visit.
7. Security and First Aid: The stadium prioritizes the safety and well-being of its visitors. Trained security personnel are present to maintain a secure environment, and first aid stations are available to provide medical assistance if needed.

It’s important to note that specific facilities and services may be subject to change depending on the event or match being held at Stadionul Ion Oblemenco. It’s recommended to check the official stadium website or inquire with the event organizers for the most up-to-date information on the available facilities.

History

Construction began on September 7, 2015. The older stadium was demolished in the same year. On 26 April, 2017, the construction reached its final phase, with seats being installed. To celebrate the opening of the stadium, Universitatea Craiova played a friendly on 10 November, 2017 against the Czech side Slavia Prague. A crowd of 30,000 people attended. The stadium officially opened with a ceremony on 18 November, 2017 before its first competitive senior game, the Liga I match against Juventus București. The match was won by Universitatea Craiova 3–1, with Alexandru Mitriță scoring the first ever official goal at the new stadium.