There is movement on the stadium issue at VfL Bochum. A new building is being discussed. The friendly Bayern fans don’t think much of it.
Will VfL Bochum get a new stadium and leave Castroper Straße?
According to information from this editorial team, this is a conceivable scenario. A new stadium at a new location is a serious option for the city of Bochum and the Bundesliga club. The second option remains a comprehensive renovation of the old Ruhrstadion, which has long since ceased to meet Bundesliga requirements.
VfL Bochum is to decide on one of the two options by the general meeting on November 28. The issue is a very emotional one for the club’s fans, including the supporters of FC Bayern Munich, who maintain a fan friendship with VfL.
During the record champions’ home game against 1. FC Heidenheim on Saturday, some supporters unfurled a banner with a clear message towards Bochum. “Your home, your love. Ruhrstadion – forever and ever,” read the poster.”
Before VfL Bochum’s evening match against 1. FC Köln, the Ultras in Bochum’s east curve also reacted to the plans and hung a long banner on the fence. “Castroper Straße 145 non-negotiable!” was written on it.
VfL Bochum: The Ruhrstadion is no longer up to date
The traditionalists among the fans are not in favor of a change of location. Soccer has been played “anne Castroper” since 1911. The Ruhrstadion was built between 1976 and 1979. The stadium is getting on in years and has long been in need of renovation. New standing areas are to be built and the VIP area urgently needs to be expanded in order to increase marketing revenue.
The city of Bochum is said to be prepared to invest a sum of around 90 million euros for one of the two stadium options. No more money would have to be spent on a new stadium than on an extensive renovation of the Ruhrstadion. This would also speak in favor of a new stadium at a different location. The same applies to the targeted capacity, which would be significantly larger with up to 40,000 seats in a new stadium