The Estadio Municipal de Balaídos, known as Abanca-Balaídos for sponsorship reasons, is an all-seater stadium in Vigo, Spain. The stadium is the home of Celta de Vigo and has a capacity for a total of 29,000 spectators.
| Built In: | 1925–1928 |
| Capacity: | 29,000 |
| Home Teams: | Celta Vigo FC |
| Ground Size: | 105 m × 70 m |
Balaidos Stadium History
Construction
In September 1924, a group of local merchants took the first steps toward the stadium’s construction by purchasing the 75,000 m2 site. The first task was to divert the Lagares River. Two years later, the businesspeople established the Stadium de Balados, S.A. corporation, which would oversee the construction of the new stadium. Jenaro de la Fuente was the stadium’s architect.
Inauguration
Balados took office on December 30, 1928. Father Faustino Ande, the archpriest of Fragoso, blessed the stadium.
The first game was between the hosts, Celta Vigo, and the Basque team Real Unión. Carmen Gregorio-Espino, the daughter of the previous mayor Adolfo Gregorio Espino, gave the ceremonial start. Celta Vigo’s Graciliano scored the first goal in the new stadium in a 7-0 victory.
Renovations
Balados received its second major refurbishment in preparation for the 1982 FIFA World Cup, with the Rio stand totally rebuilt, the Gol end added, and the Tribuna and Marcador stands refurbished.
Celta qualified for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in their history in 2002-03. Their joy was short-lived, however, because the stadium failed the subsequent UEFA stadium inspection required to host their games. Celta could be forced to play their home games at Porto’s Estádio do Drago, according to reports. The essential upgrades, however, were paid for by the local government.
Stadium Capacity
Balaidos Stadium has a seating capacity of 29,000.
Balaidos Stadium Seating Plan
Notable Events & Records
Not Yet.
Upcoming Events
Not Yet.
Parking
If you want to park at the Balaídos Stadium, there is a free outdoor car park. However, as parking is limited, it would be very difficult to park on Celta Vigo match days. However, there are some parking lots in the city where you can leave your car.
