Ko\u0161evo Grandeur
Delve into the rich history and architectural evolution of Sarajevo's iconic multi-purpose stadium, a beacon of athletic and cultural heritage.
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Stadium Overview
Location and Identity
Ko\u0161evo Stadium, officially known as City Stadium Ko\u0161evo, is a prominent multi-purpose venue situated in the Ko\u0161evo neighborhood of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is also widely recognized as Ko\u0161evo Olympic Stadium, a title earned from its significant role in the 1984 Winter Olympics. Furthermore, it bears the honorary name Stadium Asim Ferhatovi\u0107 - Hase, in tribute to the legendary footballer Asim Ferhatovi\u0107, a proposal made by FK Sarajevo in July 2004 for all club-hosted sporting events.
Ownership and Operation
The stadium is owned by the city of Sarajevo and is currently leased on a long-term basis to the football club FK Sarajevo. Historically, it has also served as a home ground for FK \u017deljezni\u010dar during various periods, particularly when their primary venue, Grbavica Stadium, was unavailable. In April 2021, FK Sarajevo secured a lease agreement to operate the stadium for the next 30 to 45 years, solidifying its role as the club's primary home.
Primary Usage
While a multi-purpose facility, Ko\u0161evo Stadium's primary function revolves around football. It serves as the home stadium for FK Sarajevo and hosts selected matches for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team. Its expansive capacity also makes it a preferred venue for large-scale public events, including major concerts and significant religious gatherings.
Architectural Design
Construction and Evolution
Construction of Ko\u0161evo Stadium commenced in 1947, with its official opening later that year. A distinctive feature of its original design was its integration into the natural topography, being "literally buried into a local hill," which allowed it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. The stadium has undergone several significant renovations throughout its history to adapt to evolving standards and event requirements.
Key Renovations
- 1966: Major renovation for the Balkan athletic championship, which included the construction of a new administration building, modern locker rooms, and a restaurant. A contemporary scoreboard and enhanced lighting systems were also installed.
- 1984: Comprehensive rebuilding for the 1984 Winter Olympics, a transformation that led to its designation as an "Olympic Stadium." This expansion significantly upgraded its facilities for international events.
- 1998: Post-Bosnian War renovation, where chairs were added to all stands, resulting in a reduction of the seating capacity to 34,500.
- 2023: Further renovation to modernize facilities.
Capacity and Specifications
The stadium's current official seating capacity is 30,121. However, for large musical and various public events, its total capacity can be expanded to accommodate up to 70,000 attendees. The field measures 105 x 68 meters (114.8 x 74.4 yards) and features a hybrid grass surface, a modern choice for durability and playability. A state-of-the-art LED scoreboard enhances the spectator experience.
Sporting Legacy
Historic Football Encounters
Ko\u0161evo Stadium has been a witness to numerous significant football events. The first international football match held here was in 1954, featuring Yugoslavia against Turkey. Throughout its history, it has consistently served as the home ground for FK Sarajevo's and FK \u017deljezni\u010dar's international fixtures, hosting matches against renowned European clubs such as Manchester United, Dynamo Kyiv, Derby County, Basel, Hamburger SV, Newcastle United, and Celtic.
Record Attendance
The stadium's largest recorded attendance occurred during a 1981\u201382 Yugoslav First League match between local rivals FK Sarajevo and FK \u017deljezni\u010dar. While an exact official figure was never published, it is widely alleged that up to 60,000 spectators filled the stadium for this highly anticipated derby, showcasing the immense passion for football in Sarajevo.
International Matches Hosted
Ko\u0161evo Stadium has been a frequent venue for international football, particularly for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team. Below is a selection of notable international matches played at the stadium, highlighting its role in regional and global football.
Cultural Hub
Grand Concerts
Beyond its sporting significance, Ko\u0161evo Stadium has established itself as a premier venue for large-scale musical concerts, attracting both regional and international artists. Its vast capacity allows for memorable performances that draw tens of thousands of fans, cementing its role as a cultural landmark in Sarajevo.
Papal Visits
The stadium has also served as a significant site for religious gatherings, notably hosting two papal pastoral visitations, underscoring its importance as a public assembly space in the region.
- Pope John Paul II: Celebrated Mass in the stadium on 13 April 1997, drawing an estimated 50,000 attendees.
- Pope Francis: Celebrated Mass in the stadium on 6 June 2015, with a congregation of approximately 67,000 people.
Exhibition Matches
Beyond competitive fixtures, Ko\u0161evo has hosted memorable exhibition matches, often featuring legendary players and teams, contributing to its rich tapestry of events.
The Olympic Moment
1984 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony
On February 7, 1984, Ko\u0161evo Stadium took center stage as it proudly hosted the opening ceremonies of the XIV Winter Olympic Games. This monumental event followed extensive renovations and expansions, transforming the stadium into a world-class Olympic venue. Approximately 50,000 spectators gathered to witness the spectacle, with the west stand alone accommodating 18,500 seating places at that time. The stadium's role in these games remains a significant chapter in its history and in the history of Sarajevo.
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References
References
- Znate li da je slavni Pele postigao gol na Koševu?;klix.ba, 14 May 2011
- Pele na jugoslovenskoj turneji;strategija.org
- ŽeljezniÄar igrao protiv milanskog Intera 3:3;klix.ba, 16 June 2012
- Real Madrid vodio 0:2, Sarajevo izjednaÄilo;klix.ba, 5 July 2011
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. Historical data, especially attendance figures, may be based on contemporary estimates rather than precise counts.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional architectural, event management, or historical research. Always refer to official records, historical archives, and consult with qualified professionals for specific inquiries or detailed research needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.