New coach, modern stadium: VfL Wolfsburg is investing in the future!

New coach, modern stadium: VfL Wolfsburg is investing in the future!

Paul Simonis has the reins at VfL Wolfsburg in his hand. The new coach is impressed by the Volkswagen Arena, which opened in 2002 and cost an impressive 53 million euros. With over 28,000 seats, the arena is a true gem in Wolfsburg. But that's not all; the arena will also be modernized and optimized to meet the needs of the future. VfL acquired the arena from Wolfsburg AG a year ago and is now investing in a major project.

The installation of a new playing surface is currently on the agenda: a hybrid turf consisting of natural grass and synthetic fibers will characterize the playing field in the future. The lawn work costs around two million euros. An innovative plastic filter system will also be installed to prevent microplastics from entering the groundwater. This measure not only reflects the trend towards sustainability, but is also seen as part of the association's efforts to deal responsibly with the environment. VfL Wolfsburg has already asked the DFL whether the new season can start with an away game, as the completion of the work is uncertain.

An award for sustainability

For its efforts in the area of ​​sustainability, VfL Wolfsburg received third place at the ESSMA Stadium Industry Award in the “Sustainability” category. This honor was presented on April 22, 2024, Earth Day 2024. Under the motto “Planet vs. Plastics”, the association wants to raise awareness of climate change and the value of the earth. Nico Briskorn, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at the Wolves, underlines the club's commitment to a clean environment.

Particularly worth mentioning is the “Microplastic Filter” project, which was developed in collaboration with the Berlin start-up Guppyfriend. This filter ensures that around 90 percent of the microplastics released do not end up in the wastewater. It helps to reduce the plastic granules on the hybrid turf and minimize microplastic pollution when washing training clothes and jerseys. The microplastic reduction concept is in perfect harmony with the club's biodiversity initiative, as VfL Wolfsburg also joined the “Sport for Nature” initiative in August 2023.

The modernization of the Volkswagen Arena

But these are not the only changes coming to the Volkswagen Arena. In the coming months, the entire range of seats will be renewed as the old seats have become obsolete after 23 years. At the same time, the technology on the video wall is being modernized, which should significantly improve the viewer experience. These comprehensive measures aim to future-proof the club and make it even more attractive for fans.

VfL Wolfsburg has already shown strong performance in the operation of its hybrid turf systems in the past. In the 2016/2017 season, the VW Arena celebrated second place in the Pitch of the Year Award, and in the 2018/19 and 2020/2021 seasons, the greenkeeper team took first place with the hybrid turf. Installing the same system on the training fields next to the arena ensures optimal conditions, because as the saying goes? VfL has a good hand with its pitch!

With these comprehensive measures, VfL Wolfsburg is taking a pioneering role in the area of ​​sustainability in football and setting an example for other clubs. In the spirit of environmental protection and modern stadium operations, the Wolves are looking forward to a green and successful future.

Further information can be found on the website of WAZ, VfL Wolfsburg and Healing sport.