Merkur Arena
Graz, Austria
Franz Fekete Stadium
Kapfenberg Austria
The Franz Fekete Stadion is a versatile multipurpose arena located in Kapfenberg, Austria. Originally opened in 1950, it serves as the home ground for Kapfenberger SV (KSV 1919), often referred to as the Falken (Falcons). With a capacity of approximately 9,640 spectators, the stadium is one of the most significant sporting venues in the Styria region. Known for its picturesque setting along the Mürz River and its friendly atmosphere, the stadium is a central hub for professional football and regional athletics.
Par Andreas Garger — Travail personnel, Domaine public, Lien
Capacity
12.000
History of the Venue
Inaugurated on September 10, 1950, with a match against Austria Vienna, the stadium was originally known as the Alpenstadion. It underwent major renovations in 1987, 2003, and 2011 to modernize its facilities. In 2001, it was renamed in honor of Franz Fekete, the long-serving Mayor of Kapfenberg who was instrumental in the city’s sporting development. Over the years, the stadium has hosted high-profile events including the Austrian Supercup finals in the mid-90s and UEFA Cup matches for Grazer AK, which drew crowds of up to 11,000 people.
Architecture and Design
The stadium features a traditional multipurpose layout with a running track surrounding a natural turf pitch. The main grandstand is fully covered, providing protection from the elements, while the rest of the stadium consists of open-air standing and seating sections that offer clear views of the surrounding Styrian mountains. Its design is functional yet scenic, integrating seamlessly into the local landscape. The venue is part of a larger sports complex that includes training pitches and facilities for track and field, making it a cornerstone for local athletes.
Atmosphere and Matchday Experience
The matchday experience in Kapfenberg is characterized by its welcoming and relaxed « small-town » charm. Fans of the Falken are known for their hospitality, often sharing the stands peacefully with visiting supporters. The stadium’s location next to the river creates a tranquil pre-game environment, while the energy inside ramps up during the 90 minutes of play. Because of its size, spectators are never far from the action, and the surrounding nature provides a unique backdrop that is rare in modern urban football.
Location and Accessibility
The stadium is located at Johann-Brandl-Gasse 25, in the heart of Kapfenberg’s sporting district.
– Rail: Kapfenberg is well-connected by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). The stadium is roughly a 15-minute walk from the Kapfenberg main station, which receives regular trains from Graz (approx. 50 minutes) and Vienna.
– By Car: It is easily accessible via the S6 motorway (Semmering Schnellstraße). Take the Kapfenberg exit and follow signs toward the city center and the stadium.
– Walking: Its central location makes it easy to reach on foot from most parts of the town or after a visit to the nearby Schlossberg.
Origin of the Name
While it was known as the Alpenstadion for over half a century, the venue was renamed the Franz Fekete Stadion in 2001. Franz Fekete (1921–2009) was the Mayor of Kapfenberg for nearly 25 years and is remembered as a visionary leader who promoted the city’s industrial and athletic growth. Interestingly, there have been recent local discussions regarding a potential return to the original « Alpenstadion » name, reflecting the stadium’s location at the gateway to the Austrian Alps.
How to get to Franz Fekete Stadium
The most convenient way to reach the stadium is by train. Frequent regional services run from Graz and Bruck an der Mur directly to Kapfenberg. From the train station, a short and pleasant walk through the town will bring you to the riverside entrance of the stadium. If driving from Graz or Vienna, the S6 motorway provides a direct route, and there is usually ample parking available in the streets surrounding the sports complex on matchdays.
Best seats, view and atmosphere
For the best comfort and a guaranteed roof over your head, the central sections of the main covered grandstand are the top choice. These seats provide a perfect view of the dugouts and the technical area. However, for a more scenic experience, sitting in the open-air sections during a sunny afternoon allows you to enjoy the view of the Mürz River and the forested hills that tower over the town. The sightlines are excellent throughout, as the stands are slightly elevated above the running track.
Where to eat and drink near Franz Fekete Stadium
Inside the stadium, kiosks serve classic Styrian snacks and traditional football food like sausages and pretzels. For a pre-match meal, many fans visit the local taverns (Gasthöfe) in the Kapfenberg town center, which is just a few minutes away. A popular nearby option is the Gasthof Niki, which offers traditional Austrian cuisine. The area around the stadium also features several small cafes where you can enjoy a coffee with a view of the river before heading through the turnstiles.
Good to know
The Franz Fekete Stadion is one of the friendliest venues in Austria, making it an excellent choice for families and neutral fans. Security is straightforward and efficient, and tickets can almost always be purchased at the gate on the day of the match for KSV 1919 games. One important tip: bring a light jacket even in the summer, as the riverside location and mountain air can cause temperatures to drop quickly once the sun goes down. Also, keep an eye out for the local mascot, the falcon, which embodies the spirit of the club.
