Volkswagen Arena: Architectural Innovation and Technological Firsts
The Volkswagen Arena serves as a benchmark for modern sports infrastructure, blending sophisticated engineering with cutting-edge technology. As the home of VfL Wolfsburg, the stadium is designed not only to host high-stakes Bundesliga matches but to provide an optimized experience for players and spectators alike through its unique structural design and digital integration.
Architectural Design and Roof Structure
The most striking feature of the stadium is its sophisticated roof, which utilizes a truss-supported membrane structure. This system consists of 32 radial trusses, each measuring 40 metres in length, which support a 15,000-square-metre fire-retardant PVC membrane. Because the membrane is translucent, it enhances the stadium's atmosphere for fans while allowing natural light to support the growth of the pitch's grass.
Seating Capacity and Spectator Experience
The Volkswagen Arena is a two-tier stadium featuring a surrounding promenade. The lower level is set at an inclination of approximately 25 degrees, while the upper level rises at 40 degrees. The entire plot covers roughly 115,000 square metres, with the stadium's floor space occupying around 28,000 square metres.
The stadium has a total capacity of 30,000, divided into 22,000 seats and 8,000 standing places. For flexibility, the standing areas can be converted into 4,000 additional seats. To ensure comfort, all seats in the arena are completely covered. The guest block is specifically equipped with 1,886 seats and 900 standing places, supported by dedicated kiosks and toilet facilities.
Premium and Specialized Areas
For VIPs and corporate guests, the arena offers a variety of high-end options:
- Private Boxes: 31 boxes providing 332 seats.
- Executive Seats: 198 seats integrated into the VIP block.
- Business Seats: 1,434 seats with direct restaurant access.
- Skylounge: A 102-square-metre space above both grandstands with 35 seats, used for events and weddings.
Located above the Skylounge is the control room, which manages critical systems including police equipment and the fire alarm system.
Accessibility and Family Services
The arena prioritizes inclusivity with dedicated spaces for people with disabilities. This includes 80 wheelchair spaces and 10 specialized seats equipped with headphones for visually impaired spectators to hear the match commentator. Families benefit from a separate booking area and on-site childcare provided by VfL Wolfsburg during home games. Additionally, a dedicated area for shorter and younger spectators ensures an unobstructed view of the action.
Technological Innovations
The Volkswagen Arena has frequently been a pioneer in the Bundesliga. In early 2017, it became the first Bundesliga club to implement an LED floodlight system. This replaced the original system of over 170 lamps (each weighing 35 kilos) that produced 1,500 lux. The audio experience is powered by 84 roof-mounted speakers, each weighing 120 kilos, producing a total of 600 watts. Visuals are delivered via two video walls covering 53 square metres.
The pitch itself utilizes hybrid grass—natural grass reinforced with synthetic fibres to improve weatherability. The Volkswagen Arena was the first Bundesliga stadium to introduce this system, and the pitch is heated to ensure matches can proceed regardless of snow or ice.
Digital Integration and 5G
On match day 5 of the 2019/2020 campaign against Hoffenheim, the arena became the first Bundesliga stadium to debut 5G technology, a collaboration between the DFL and Vodafone. This connectivity enabled the launch of a real-time football stat app developed with Immersiv.io. Powered by Sportec Solutions and ChyronHego's visual tracking technology, the app provides fans with enhanced match statistics and player performance data in real-time.
Key Facts
- Total Capacity: 30,000 (22,000 seats, 8,000 standing).
- Roof: 15,000 sqm translucent PVC membrane supported by 32 radial trusses.
- Pitch: First Bundesliga stadium to use hybrid grass and integrated heating.
- Lighting: First Bundesliga stadium to adopt an LED floodlight system (2017).
- Connectivity: First Bundesliga stadium to debut 5G technology (2019/2020).
- Accessibility: 80 wheelchair spaces and 10 audio-assisted seats for visually impaired fans.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Plot Area | ~115,000 square metres |
| Stadium Floor Space | ~28,000 square metres |
| Roof Membrane Size | 15,000 square metres |
| Guest Block Capacity | 1,886 seats / 900 standing |
| Video Wall Area | 53 square metres |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hybrid grass and why is it used?
Hybrid grass is natural grass reinforced with synthetic fibres. It is used at the Volkswagen Arena to improve the pitch's weatherability and durability.
How does the stadium accommodate visually impaired spectators?
The stadium provides 10 specialized seats equipped with headphones, allowing visually impaired fans to listen to the match commentator.
What makes the roof of the Volkswagen Arena unique?
The roof uses a truss-supported membrane structure with 32 radial trusses and a translucent PVC membrane, which allows natural light to reach the pitch.
What digital innovations were introduced in the 2019/2020 season?
The stadium debuted 5G technology and a real-time football stat app that provides fans with advanced player performance and match data via visual tracking technology.
Are there facilities for families with children?
Yes, the arena offers a separate seating area for families, a dedicated view area for shorter spectators, and childcare services provided by VfL Wolfsburg during home games.