Ratina Stadium | Tampere

Ratina Stadium (Ratinan stadion) is a prominent sports stadium located in Tampere, Finland. It serves as a key venue for various sporting events, including football (soccer) matches, athletics competitions, and concerts. The stadium is named after its location, the Ratina district, and is a vital part of Tampere’s sporting and cultural scene.

1. History and Development

• Opened in 1950: The original Ratina Stadium was inaugurated in 1950, and it has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years to modernize its facilities and improve spectator experiences.
• Renovation: A major renovation took place between 2015 and 2017, when the stadium was rebuilt and transformed into a more modern, state-of-the-art venue. The updated design now meets the requirements for larger crowds and more diverse events. This renovation included the addition of a roof, new seating, and enhanced facilities for both athletes and spectators.
• Capacity: After the renovation, the stadium’s seating capacity was increased to around 16,000 spectators, making it one of the larger stadiums in Finland.

2. Sports Events and Usage

• Football: Ratina Stadium is primarily known as the home stadium for FC Tampereen Ilves, one of the city's professional football teams. It hosts many of their Veikkausliiga (Finnish top-tier football league) matches, as well as international fixtures for the Finnish national team when Tampere is chosen as a host city.
• Athletics: The stadium also serves as a venue for various athletic events, including track and field competitions. It is equipped with a modern athletics track and provides excellent facilities for professional athletes.
• Other Sports: Ratina Stadium has been used for rugby, American football, and other sporting events, adding to its versatility as a multi-sport venue.

3. Concerts and Cultural Events

• Music Concerts: In addition to sports, Ratina Stadium is often used for large open-air concerts. The stadium’s size and modern infrastructure make it an ideal venue for performances by both international and Finnish artists. Notable performances have included concerts by global superstars such as Coldplay and Rammstein.
• Cultural Events: The venue is also used for cultural festivals, community events, and corporate functions, making it a significant hub for various events in Tampere.

4. Facilities and Modernization

• New Seating and VIP Areas: The renovations in 2017 included the installation of modern seating, with options for VIP areas and more comfortable viewing for fans.
• Roof: One of the most notable additions during the renovation was a new roof, which covers a large portion of the seating area, ensuring protection for spectators from the weather.
• Media and Broadcast Facilities: The stadium now includes advanced media facilities to accommodate press, broadcasters, and photographers, especially during international events.
• Accessibility: The venue is accessible for people with disabilities, with ramps, designated seating areas, and other accessibility features to ensure all visitors can comfortably attend events.

5. Ratina Stadium's Role in Tampere

• Community and National Significance: Ratina Stadium holds a significant place in Tampere's sporting culture, being one of the central venues for high-profile sports in the city. It is not only a place for top-tier professional sports but also plays a key role in youth sports development, with local sports clubs using the stadium for training and competitions.
• Tourism and International Visitors: The stadium attracts international visitors during major events, such as football matches, concerts, and athletics competitions. It has contributed to Tampere’s reputation as a host city for both sports tourism and cultural tourism.

6. Notable Events

• International Football Matches: Ratina Stadium has hosted several significant international football matches, including fixtures for the Finnish national team. It is one of the premier football stadiums in Finland, alongside Helsinki’s Olympic Stadium.
• World-Class Concerts: The stadium has also seen concerts from top international artists, drawing crowds from all over the region. It has hosted artists like Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
• Sports Competitions: In addition to the domestic events, Ratina has also hosted international athletics events, such as the European Athletics Championships, as well as rugby and other sports events at the national level.

7. Visitor Experience

• Seating and Viewing: With its modern seating and improved sightlines, Ratina Stadium provides an excellent experience for spectators, whether attending a sports match or a concert.
• Food and Beverage: The stadium offers a variety of food and drink options for visitors, including snacks, meals, and beverages. There are dedicated areas for both casual and premium visitors to enjoy.
• Transport and Accessibility: The stadium is well-served by public transport, including buses and trams, and is located close to the city center. Parking facilities are available, and the venue is easily accessible by foot or bike for locals.

8. Conclusion

Ratina Stadium is one of Tampere's key landmarks, offering world-class facilities for sports and entertainment. With its modern design, upgraded infrastructure, and rich history in Finnish sports, the stadium is a central hub for major events, from football matches to international concerts. Its significance extends beyond Tampere, making it one of Finland's most important sporting venues. Whether you're a sports fan, a concert-goer, or a visitor looking to experience Tampere's culture, Ratina Stadium is a must-see location.