Inside Ellis Park Stadium: A Comprehensive Tour of Johannesburg’s Iconic Venue

Ellis Park Stadium, also known as Emirates Airline Park, is a world-renowned sports stadium located in the city of Johannesburg, South Africa. It is a multi-purpose stadium that has been the home of the Golden Lions Rugby Union team since 1928. The stadium has hosted numerous local and international sporting events, concerts, and political rallies over the years.

The stadium has a rich history, having been built in 1927 and undergoing several renovations and upgrades since then. It has a seating capacity of 62,567 and is known for its iconic design and breathtaking views of the city. The stadium is also famous for hosting the final match of the 1995 Rugby World Cup, which was won by the South African national team, the Springboks.

Inside Ellis Park Stadium, visitors can expect to find state-of-the-art facilities and services, including top-notch security and safety measures, ample parking, and a variety of food and beverage options. The stadium is easily accessible by public transport and is located in a bustling area with plenty of accommodation options for visitors.

Key Takeaways

• Ellis Park Stadium is a world-renowned sports stadium located in Johannesburg, South Africa.
• The stadium has a rich history and has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years.
• Inside the stadium, visitors can expect state-of-the-art facilities and services, ample parking, and easy accessibility.

History of Ellis Park Soccer Stadium

Construction and Opening

Ellis Park Stadium, also known as Emirates Airline Park for sponsorship reasons, is a rugby union and association football stadium in Johannesburg, Gauteng Province, South Africa. The stadium was constructed in 1928 on land initially made available by Mr. J.D. Ellis, a Johannesburg city councilor who allowed 13 acres to build the stadium. It was named after him. The stadium was opened on 24 March 1928, and it hosted its first rugby union match between Transvaal and Eastern Province on the same day.

Key Events and Renovations

Ellis Park Stadium has a rich history of hosting key events. It hosted the final of the 1995 Rugby World Cup, which was won by the South African national team, the Springboks. The stadium was also one of the host venues for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where it hosted five matches, including a quarter-final match between Argentina and Germany.

Over the years, the stadium has undergone several renovations and upgrades. In 1982, the stadium was demolished and rebuilt as a rugby stadium. In 2005, it became the first black-owned stadium in South Africa. The stadium can accommodate around 60,000 spectators, and ongoing upgrades, renovations, and safety reviews confirm Emirates Airlines Park’s reputation as one of the best stadiums in the world.

Ellis Park Stadium has been the home to Johannesburg’s rugby team, the Highveld Lions, since its opening. The stadium is also used for other sports and events, including soccer, music concerts, and religious gatherings.

Stadium Design

Seating Capacity

Ellis Park Stadium has a seating capacity of 62,567, making it one of the largest stadiums in South Africa. The stadium has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years to improve its facilities and increase its capacity. The seating arrangement is designed to provide an excellent view of the pitch from every seat in the stadium.

Pitch and Field Dimensions

The playing surface at Ellis Park Stadium measures 100 meters by 69 meters, which is the standard size for rugby union and association football. The pitch is made up of natural grass, and it is meticulously maintained to ensure that it is in excellent condition for every match. The stadium also has floodlights installed, which allow for night matches to take place.

Architectural Features

Ellis Park Stadium has a unique architectural design that sets it apart from other stadiums in South Africa. The stadium has a distinctive bowl shape, with the stands curving around the pitch to create an intimate atmosphere for spectators. The stadium’s roof is supported by a series of columns that give it a modern and futuristic look.

The stadium also features several state-of-the-art facilities, including VIP lounges, conference rooms, and hospitality suites. These facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience for guests who want to enjoy the match in style.

Overall, Ellis Park Stadium is a world-class sporting facility that is designed to provide an excellent experience for both players and spectators. Its seating capacity, pitch dimensions, and architectural features make it one of the most iconic stadiums in South Africa.

Location and Accessibility

Geographical Position

Ellis Park Stadium is a multi-purpose sports stadium located in the Doornfontein suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa. It is situated at the corner of Sivewright Avenue and Lower Germiston Road, just a few kilometers away from the city center. The stadium’s geographical position makes it easily accessible to both locals and tourists alike.

Transport and Parking Facilities

Ellis Park Stadium has ample parking facilities available for visitors. There are several parking lots surrounding the stadium, including one inside the stadium itself. Visitors can park their vehicles in one of these lots and enjoy the game without having to worry about their car’s security.

In terms of public transport, the stadium is easily accessible by bus, train, or taxi. The Doornfontein train station is located just a few meters away from the stadium, making it easy for visitors to reach the stadium by train. Additionally, there are several bus stops located near the stadium, and taxis are readily available in the area.

Surrounding Amenities

Ellis Park Stadium is surrounded by several amenities, including restaurants, bars, and hotels. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink before or after the game at one of the many restaurants or bars located near the stadium. Additionally, there are several hotels located in the area, making it easy for visitors to find accommodation if they are traveling from out of town.

In conclusion, Ellis Park Stadium’s location and accessibility make it a popular destination for sports fans in Johannesburg. With ample parking facilities, easy access to public transport, and several surrounding amenities, visitors can enjoy the game without having to worry about logistics.

Also, check: Loftus Versfeld Stadium: A Comprehensive Guide to Pretoria’s Iconic Venue

Events and Usage

Ellis Park Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium located in Johannesburg, South Africa. The stadium has a capacity of 62,567 and is one of the most iconic sports venues in the country. It has hosted several major sporting events, concerts, and community events over the years.

Sports Matches

Ellis Park Stadium is best known as a rugby and football stadium. The stadium has been the home of the Golden Lions Rugby Union since 1928 and has hosted several international rugby matches, including the final of the 1995 Rugby World Cup. It has also hosted several football matches, including the opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Concerts and Shows

Apart from sports events, Ellis Park Stadium has also hosted several concerts and shows over the years. The stadium has been a popular venue for major international artists and bands, including U2, Coldplay, and Metallica. The stadium has also hosted several music festivals, including the Joburg Day music festival.

Community and Cultural Events

Ellis Park Stadium has also been a venue for several community and cultural events. The stadium has hosted several charity events, including the Nelson Mandela Foundation’s 46664 charity concerts. It has also been a venue for several cultural events, including the annual Johannesburg Carnival.

Overall, Ellis Park Stadium is a versatile venue that has played a significant role in South Africa’s sports and cultural history. It continues to attract major events and remains an important part of the country’s cultural landscape.

Facilities and Services

Ellis Park Stadium is a world-class facility that offers a range of services and amenities to its visitors. Here are some of the key facilities and services available at the stadium:

Hospitality Suites

Ellis Park Stadium offers a range of hospitality suites that are perfect for corporate events, private parties, and other special occasions. These suites offer stunning views of the field and are equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, high-speed internet, and other amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of catering options, including full meals, snacks, and drinks.

Food and Beverage Outlets

The stadium has a range of food and beverage outlets that offer a variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets. From fast food to fine dining, visitors can choose from a range of options, including burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, pizza, and more. There are also a number of bars and pubs where visitors can enjoy a cold beer or other alcoholic beverages.

Merchandising and Shopping

Ellis Park Stadium has a range of merchandising and shopping options for visitors who want to take home a souvenir or two. There are a number of official merchandise stores where visitors can purchase team jerseys, hats, scarves, and other items. There are also a number of other shops and vendors selling a range of items, including snacks, drinks, and other souvenirs.

In summary, Ellis Park Stadium offers a range of facilities and services that are designed to enhance the visitor experience. From hospitality suites to food and beverage outlets and shopping options, visitors are sure to find everything they need to enjoy a great day out at the stadium.

Safety and Regulations

Security Measures

Ellis Park Stadium has made significant improvements to its security measures in recent years. The stadium management has invested in modern surveillance systems and increased the number of security personnel to ensure the safety of all visitors. The stadium’s security team works closely with the South African Police Service to maintain a secure environment for all visitors.

Safety Protocols

Ellis Park Stadium has implemented strict safety protocols to ensure the safety of all visitors. The stadium has a comprehensive emergency response plan in place, which includes medical personnel on standby during events. The stadium management also conducts regular safety drills to ensure that staff and visitors are prepared for any emergency situation.

Regulatory Compliance

Ellis Park Stadium is fully compliant with all relevant regulations and standards. The stadium has been certified by the South African Bureau of Standards and regularly undergoes safety inspections to maintain its certification. The stadium management also adheres to all local and national regulations regarding safety and security.

In conclusion, Ellis Park Stadium takes the safety and security of its visitors very seriously. The stadium’s security measures, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance ensure that visitors can enjoy events at the stadium with peace of mind.

Economic Impact

Ellis Park Stadium has had a significant economic impact on the local community, both in terms of boosting the local economy and creating employment opportunities.

Local Economy Boost

The Ellis Park Sports Precinct, which includes Ellis Park Stadium, has been designated as a Local Economic Development (LED) project. The precinct received a boost of R 2081 billion to upgrade the area for the 2010 World Cup. This upgrade was conducted under the guise of LED, which is aimed at promoting economic development in a specific geographic area. However, LED very often does not deliver the admirable claim of economic development, and there has been some debate about the effectiveness of the Ellis Park upgrade project as an LED initiative.

Despite the debate, it is clear that the upgrade of Ellis Park Stadium has had a positive impact on the local economy. The stadium has been a popular venue for sports events, concerts, and other entertainment events, which have attracted visitors from all over the country and the world. This has led to increased spending on accommodation, food, and other services, which has boosted the local economy.

Employment Opportunities

The upgrade of Ellis Park Stadium has also created employment opportunities for local residents. The construction of the stadium and the surrounding infrastructure created jobs for thousands of people, while the ongoing operation of the stadium has created jobs for maintenance staff, security personnel, and other workers. In addition, the stadium has been a venue for job fairs and other employment-related events, which have helped to connect local residents with job opportunities.

Overall, the economic impact of Ellis Park Stadium has been significant, both in terms of boosting the local economy and creating employment opportunities. While there has been some debate about the effectiveness of the Ellis Park upgrade project as an LED initiative, it is clear that the stadium has been a valuable asset to the local community.