Stade Maurice Dufrasne
Sclessin, Belgium
Stade de Rocourt
Rocourt Belgium
The Stade de Rocourt, officially known as the Stade de la Verrerie for sponsorship reasons, is located in the Rocourt district of Liège, Belgium. It serves as the home ground for Royal Football Club Liège, one of the oldest and most storied clubs in Belgian football. With a capacity of approximately 3,000 spectators, this modern iteration of the stadium marks a significant return for the club after decades of wandering without a permanent home. While the original « Velodrome » stadium on this site was a legendary fortress of Belgian sports, the current facility offers an intimate and passionate atmosphere that keeps the spirit of the « Great Old » alive in the heart of the Walloon region.
Par CrucialFriend — Travail personnel, CC0, Lien
Capacity
4.147
History of the stadium
The history of the Stade de Rocourt is a tale of resilience and homecoming. The original stadium, opened in 1921, was a massive arena that hosted international matches and cycling events, but it was sadly demolished in 1995. For twenty years, RFC Liège played at various temporary locations until they finally secured a return to their spiritual home in Rocourt. The new stadium was inaugurated in 2015, representing a modest but vital restart for a club that won the first-ever Belgian championship. It symbolizes the bridge between the glorious past of the four-time champions and their modern ambitions in the professional ranks.
Architecture & design
The current stadium is designed with functionality and proximity in mind, contrasting sharply with the sprawling concrete terraces of the old Velodrome. It features a main grandstand with modern seating and covered standing areas that surround the pitch, ensuring that the sound of the fans remains concentrated. The design focuses on providing clear sightlines and a professional environment that meets the standards of the Belgian Challenger Pro League while maintaining the feel of a traditional neighborhood football ground.
Atmosphere & matchday experience
Attending a match at Rocourt is an authentic experience characterized by the fierce loyalty of the RFC Liège supporters. Despite the smaller capacity compared to top-tier Belgian stadiums, the crowd is famously vocal, often creating an environment that feels much larger than the physical space suggests. The matchday experience is defined by local traditions, including the singing of club anthems and a friendly yet intense competitive spirit that permeates the stands from kickoff until the final whistle.
Location & neighbourhood
Situated in the northern part of Liège, Rocourt is a bustling suburban district known for its commercial centers and residential streets. The stadium is nestled within a sports complex area, surrounded by local amenities that make it a central hub for the community. The neighborhood retains a strong connection to the club’s identity, as many locals have followed the team through its various divisions and stadium transitions over the last century.
Who's play in Stade de Rocourt
How to get to Stade de Rocourt
Reaching the stadium is straightforward via public transport or car. From the Liège-Guillemins railway station, visitors can take several TEC bus lines, such as line 70 or 74, which stop in the immediate vicinity of the ground. For those driving, the stadium is conveniently located near the E40 and E42 motorway junction. There is dedicated parking available around the sports complex, though it is advisable to arrive early on matchdays as the surrounding residential streets can become quite congested.
Best seats, view and atmosphere
For the best perspective of the tactical play, the central blocks of the main covered grandstand offer the highest vantage points and the most comfortable seating. However, those looking to fully immerse themselves in the local culture should head toward the standing sections behind the goals. This is where the core fan groups gather, providing the continuous chants and energy that define the Rocourt atmosphere. The compact nature of the stadium ensures that even from the corners, you remain very close to the action.
Where to eat and drink near Stade de Rocourt
The stadium features an on-site clubhouse that serves as the primary meeting point for fans to enjoy a Belgian beer or a quick snack before the game. Just outside the stadium grounds along the Chaussée de Tongres, you will find several local establishments like the Brasserie de Rocourt, which is a popular spot for a pre-match meal. For a classic Belgian experience, there are multiple « friteries » within walking distance where you can grab traditional fries and snacks in a casual setting.
Good to know
Visitors should be aware that matches against regional rivals can result in heightened security measures and separate access routes for home and away fans. It is important to check the ticketing status in advance, as high-profile matches often sell out quickly given the limited capacity. The stadium operates primarily with electronic payment systems for concessions, so carrying a debit or credit card is recommended. Lastly, remember that Liège weather can be unpredictable, so even in the covered sections, it is wise to dress warmly during the winter months.
