St. Jakob-Park
Basel, Switzerland
Capacity
22005
About this place
History
The Stade Auguste-Bonal was inaugurated in 1931 under the name Stade de la Forge, reflecting Montbéliard’s industrial heritage and its close ties to the Peugeot factories. Over the decades, it became the home ground of FC Sochaux-Montbéliard, one of the oldest professional clubs in France. The stadium has hosted numerous Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 fixtures as well as European matches during the club’s peak years. In the early 2000s, it underwent a major reconstruction, reopening in 2000 as a fully modernized venue while retaining its historic significance.
Architecture
With a capacity of around 20,000 spectators, the stadium features four covered stands forming a rectangular configuration close to the pitch. The renovation brought improved facilities, including VIP areas, media zones, and modern seating, ensuring compliance with contemporary safety and comfort standards. Its compact design creates an intimate atmosphere, enhancing the connection between players and supporters.
Location
The stadium is located in Montbéliard, in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of eastern France. Easily accessible by road and public transport, it lies near the city center and within proximity to the Peugeot factory, highlighting the deep link between the club, the community, and the local industry.
Who was Auguste Bonal?
The stadium is named after Auguste Bonal, a former director of the Peugeot factories and president of FC Sochaux-Montbéliard, who played a key role in developing the club during its formative years. Naming the stadium after him pays tribute to his influence on both the club and the region’s football identity.
