AFAS Trainingscomplex
Netherlands
About this place
History of the stadium
The stadium opened in 1996 as the new home of Ajax, replacing the historic De Meer Stadion. It was originally known under a different name before being renamed in honor of Johan Cruyff, one of the most influential figures in football history. Since its inauguration, the venue has hosted domestic league matches, European competitions and major international events.
Architecture and design
The stadium features a modern oval bowl design with a fully retractable roof, allowing events to be held in all weather conditions. Seating tiers are steep and continuous, providing clear sightlines from all areas. The design emphasizes flexibility, comfort and large-scale crowd management.
Atmosphere and matchday experience
Matchdays at Johan Cruyff ArenA offer a powerful and organized atmosphere. Ajax supporters create coordinated chants and displays, especially during European nights. The enclosed structure and roof configuration help amplify sound, making the stadium an intimidating venue for visiting teams.
Location and accessibility
The stadium is located in the southeast of Amsterdam within a major transport hub. It is easily accessible by train, metro and bus services, with direct connections from the city center and Schiphol Airport. The surrounding area includes entertainment, retail and office developments.
Origin of the stadium name
The stadium is named after Johan Cruyff, legendary Dutch footballer and coach closely associated with Ajax and the Netherlands national team. The name reflects his lasting influence on the club’s identity and on modern football philosophy.
