Veltins-Arena
Gelsenkirchen, Germany
About this place
History of the stadium
Vonovia Ruhrstadion was inaugurated in 1979 as a modern replacement for earlier football grounds in Bochum. It became the permanent home of VfL Bochum and has hosted Bundesliga and lower-division matches throughout the club’s fluctuating history. The stadium remains a central symbol of football in the Ruhr area.
Architecture and design
The stadium features a compact rectangular bowl with four stands positioned very close to the pitch. Its steep terraces and enclosed design emphasize proximity and acoustics rather than scale. The structure reflects traditional German football architecture focused on atmosphere and fan engagement.
Atmosphere and matchday experience
Matchdays at Vonovia Ruhrstadion are known for their raw and intense atmosphere. VfL Bochum supporters create constant noise, making the stadium a difficult venue for visiting teams. The close proximity of the stands amplifies chants and crowd reactions throughout the match.
Location and accessibility
The stadium is located near Bochum city center and is well integrated into the urban environment. It is accessible by tram, bus and regional rail services, with efficient transport links connecting it to the wider Ruhr metropolitan area.
Origin of the stadium name
The name Vonovia Ruhrstadion comes from a naming rights agreement with Vonovia, a major German real estate company. The Ruhrstadion name reflects the stadium’s strong regional identity within the Ruhr area.
