Loftus Versfeld Stadium – Pretoria’s Premier Sporting Venue
History African@africanhistory
21 days ago
Loftus Versfeld Stadium, located in the Arcadia suburb of Pretoria, South Africa, is a historic and iconic venue renowned for hosting major rugby and football matches, as well as concerts and other significant events.
🏟️ Stadium Overview
Opened: 1923
Capacity: 51,762 spectators
Surface: Grass
Primary Tenants:
Blue Bulls (Currie Cup)
Bulls (United Rugby Championship)
Mamelodi Sundowns F.C. (Premier Soccer League)
Location: 440 Kirkness Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, South Africa
Altitude: Approximately 1,350 meters above sea level
Public Transit: Accessible via Hatfield Gautrain station
📜 Historical Significance
The stadium is named after Robert Owen Loftus Versfeld, a pioneer of organized sports in Pretoria. Originally known as the Eastern Sports Ground, it was renamed in his honor following his death in 1932. Over the years, Loftus Versfeld has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate growing audiences and modern facilities.
⚽🏉 Notable Events
Rugby:
Hosted numerous test matches for the South African national rugby union team, including games against New Zealand, Australia, England, and Ireland.
Venue for the 2009 Super 14 Final and the 2024 United Rugby Championship final.
Football:
Served as one of the venues for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, hosting opening round games and a Round of 16 match.
Concerts:
Featured performances by international artists such as UB40, Robbie Williams, and Celine Dion, attracting tens of thousands of fans.
Boxing:
In 1979, hosted a heavyweight title fight between Gerrie Coetzee and John Tate, drawing a crowd of 80,000 spectators.
🎉 Fan Experience
Loftus Versfeld offers a vibrant fan experience with amenities including:
A fan park featuring entertainment, food stalls, and merchandise vendors.
Trademarx @ Loftus Restaurant & Bar for dining and refreshments.
The Blue Bulls Shop offering branded rugby gear and clothing.
Stadium tours providing insights into its rich history and facilities.
📅 Upcoming Events
For information on upcoming matches and events at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, including ticketing and schedules, you can visit platforms such as Koobit and AllEvents.in.
📍Visiting Information
The stadium is centrally located in Pretoria and is easily accessible by public transportation, including the nearby Hatfield Gautrain station. Its proximity to various city attractions makes it a convenient destination for both local and international visitors.
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Photo Credit: Stadium DB
