18 Facts About Mapfre Stadium

The Birth of Mapfre Stadium

Mapfre Stadium, located in Columbus, Ohio, holds a special place in American soccer history. It was the first soccer-specific stadium built for Major League Soccer (MLS). Here are some fascinating facts about this iconic venue.

1. Opened in 1999: Mapfre Stadium opened its doors on May 15, 1999. It was the first soccer-specific stadium in the United States built for an MLS team.

2. Home to Columbus Crew: The stadium has been the home ground for the Columbus Crew, one of the original MLS teams, since its opening.

3. Construction Cost: The stadium was built at a cost of $28.5 million, a relatively modest sum for a sports venue.

Design and Features

The design of Mapfre Stadium was innovative for its time, focusing on creating an intimate atmosphere for soccer fans. Let's delve into some of its unique features.

4. Seating Capacity: The stadium can hold approximately 20,000 spectators, providing an intimate setting for fans to enjoy the game.

5. Grass Surface: The playing surface is natural grass, preferred by players for its playability and reduced injury risk.

6. Modular Design: The stadium's design is modular, allowing for easy expansion or reconfiguration if needed.

Memorable Moments

Mapfre Stadium has been the site of numerous memorable moments in soccer history. Here are a few highlights.

7. 2001 U.S. Open Cup Final: The stadium hosted the 2001 U.S. Open Cup Final, where the Los Angeles Galaxy defeated the New England Revolution.

8. Dos a Cero: The U.S. Men's National Team has a famous history at Mapfre Stadium, often defeating Mexico by a score of 2-0, known as "Dos a Cero."

9. MLS Cup 2015: The stadium hosted the MLS Cup in 2015, where the Columbus Crew faced the Portland Timbers.

Community Impact

Mapfre Stadium has had a significant impact on the local community, providing a venue for various events beyond soccer.

10. Concerts and Events: The stadium has hosted numerous concerts and events, including performances by major artists like Metallica and Foo Fighters.

11. High School Sports: Local high schools have used the stadium for football games and other sporting events.

12. Charity Events: The venue has been used for various charity events, helping to raise funds for local causes.

Technological Advancements

Over the years, Mapfre Stadium has incorporated several technological advancements to enhance the fan experience.

13. High-Definition Video Boards: The stadium features high-definition video boards, providing clear views of replays and other content.

14. Wi-Fi Access: Fans can stay connected with free Wi-Fi access throughout the stadium.

15. LED Lighting: The stadium uses energy-efficient LED lighting, improving visibility while reducing energy consumption.

Future Prospects

As the Columbus Crew moves to a new stadium, the future of Mapfre Stadium remains a topic of interest.

16. New Stadium: The Columbus Crew moved to a new stadium, Lower.com Field, in 2021, marking the end of an era for Mapfre Stadium.

17. Potential Redevelopment: There are discussions about redeveloping the site for community use, including sports facilities and public spaces.

18. Legacy: Despite the move, Mapfre Stadium's legacy as a pioneering soccer-specific stadium in the U.S. will always be remembered.

The Final Whistle

Mapfre Stadium, the first soccer-specific stadium in the U.S., holds a special place in sports history. Opened in 1999, it set the stage for future venues dedicated to soccer. Home to the Columbus Crew, it has hosted countless memorable matches, including MLS Cup finals and international games. The stadium's design, with its intimate seating and excellent sightlines, ensures fans are always close to the action.

Beyond soccer, Mapfre Stadium has been a versatile venue for concerts, rugby matches, and other events. Its impact on the local community and the growth of soccer in the U.S. can't be overstated. As the Crew move to their new home, Lower.com Field, Mapfre Stadium's legacy will live on. It remains a symbol of the sport's rise in America and a beloved landmark for fans and players alike.