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Discover the rich history of the Johan Cruijff ArenA

The Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam is more than just a stadium; it's a landmark of modern architecture and a symbol of Dutch footballing excellence. Home to AFC Ajax, it boasts a rich history of innovation and unforgettable events.

Johan Cruijff ArenA timeline

  • 1993 (November 26): Construction officially began with the driving of the first pile.
  • 1996 (August 14): The stadium was officially opened by Queen Beatrix as the Amsterdam ArenA, with a grand ceremony including a match between Ajax and AC Milan.
  • 1998: The stadium hosted the UEFA Champions League final, a testament to its world-class facilities.
  • 2000: It served as a key venue for the UEFA Euro 2000 championship, hosting several important matches.
  • 2013: The stadium hosted the UEFA Europa League final, further cementing its status as a premier European football venue.
  • 2016 (March): Legendary Dutch footballer Johan Cruijff passed away, leading to discussions about renaming the stadium in his honor.
  • 2017 (June): A major facade renovation project commenced, designed to modernize its appearance and enhance visitor experience.
  • 2018 (August): The stadium was officially renamed Johan Cruijff ArenA, in tribute to the iconic footballer.
  • 2020: The extensive facade renovation was completed just in time to host matches for the UEFA Euro 2020 championship.

History of Johan Cruijff ArenA explained

From Olympic dream to football home (1980s–early 1990s)

The concept for a new stadium in Amsterdam emerged in the late 1980s, initially tied to the city's bid for the 1992 Summer Olympics. Although Amsterdam lost the bid, the vision for a modern, large-capacity stadium persisted. AFC Ajax, one of Europe's most storied football clubs, needed a new home as their ground, De Meer, had become too small for their growing fanbase. This convergence of a city's aspirations and a club's needs laid the groundwork for the ArenA.

Construction and grand opening (1993–1996)

Construction commenced on November 26, 1993. The project was a significant undertaking, led by prominent contractors Ballast Nedam and Royal BAM Group. Over three years, the structure took shape, featuring a retractable roof, a revolutionary design element for a major European stadium at the time. This allowed the venue to adapt to various events and weather conditions. The stadium, then known as the Amsterdam ArenA, was inaugurated on August 14, 1996, by Queen Beatrix, marked by a celebratory football match between AFC Ajax and AC Milan.

Hub for European football and entertainment (1996–2016)

Following its opening, the Amsterdam ArenA established itself as a premier venue on the European stage. It hosted major football events, including the UEFA Champions League final in 1998 and several matches during the UEFA Euro 2000 championship. In 2013, it took center stage for the UEFA Europa League final. Beyond football, the stadium became a popular destination for large-scale concerts and other cultural events, drawing international artists and diverse audiences.

Renaming and modernization (2016–Present)

A significant turning point in the stadium's history occurred in 2016 with the passing of Dutch football legend Johan Cruijff. As a tribute to his legacy, it was announced that the Amsterdam ArenA would be renamed in his honor in August 2018. Concurrently, a major renovation project, which began in June 2017 and was completed by 2020, modernized its facade and enhanced visitor facilities, ensuring its continued status as a state-of-the-art venue capable of hosting major international events like the UEFA Euro 2020 championship.

Construction of Johan Cruijff ArenA

Johan Cruijff ArenA interior with empty red seats and field, Amsterdam.

The Johan Cruijff ArenA, originally designed by Rob Schuuman, was a pioneering architectural feat for its time. Built between 1993 and 1996 at a cost equivalent to €140 million, it became the largest stadium in the Netherlands. Its most innovative feature was its retractable roof, allowing it to host events regardless of weather conditions—a first for a major European stadium.

The design focused on creating a versatile, multi-functional arena capable of hosting both sporting events and large-scale concerts. Contractors Ballast Nedam and Royal BAM Group meticulously constructed the venue, which stood out with its bold, modern aesthetic. The stadium's design incorporated advanced engineering, particularly for the complex mechanism of the sliding roof, demonstrating a commitment to cutting-edge stadium technology from its inception.

Significant renovations and legacy

Since its opening, the Johan Cruijff ArenA has continually evolved. A significant renovation project, initiated in 2017 and completed in 2020, transformed the stadium's exterior from a concave to a convex shape. This upgrade, led by architects like Soeters van Eldonk Architecten for parts of the design, was undertaken to improve visitor flows, enhance facilities, and accommodate UEFA Euro 2020 matches.

Beyond aesthetics, the ArenA is a global leader in sustainability and innovation. It boasts a large array of solar panels on its roof, which generate significant electricity, complemented by an innovative battery storage system that utilizes recycled electric vehicle batteries. This commitment to green energy and smart technology underscores its ongoing legacy as a forward-thinking venue.

Johan Cruijff ArenA today

Press room at Johan Cruijff ArenA with Ajax branding, part of the Classic Tour experience.

Today, the Johan Cruijff ArenA seamlessly blends its rich sporting heritage with a commitment to modern innovation. It continues to be the proud home of AFC Ajax and a premier venue for international football matches, concerts, and major events, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Its pioneering retractable roof, sustainable practices, and role as a cultural and entertainment hub make it a testament to architectural ingenuity and a significant contributor to Amsterdam's vibrant identity. A visit to this stadium offers a unique insight into its fascinating history and ongoing relevance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Johan Cruijff ArenA history

The Johan Cruijff ArenA is historically significant as one of Europe's first stadiums with a retractable roof, the home of AFC Ajax, and a venue for major international football events and concerts. It was also renamed in honor of the legendary Johan Cruijff.