Estadio José Zorrilla

Valladolid, Spain

Capacity

27,618

Opened

1982

Surface

Grass

Home Team

Real Valladolid

Overview

Estadio José Zorrilla, opened in 1982, is a historic venue that holds the distinction of being the only purpose-built stadium constructed specifically for the 1982 FIFA World Cup. Home to Real Valladolid, this 27,618-capacity stadium is named after the famous Romantic poet José Zorrilla, who was born in Valladolid. The stadium features a distinctive horseshoe design, with the southern end enclosed in 1986 to improve atmosphere and protect fans from Valladolid's notoriously harsh weather. Located in Spain's capital of Castile and León, the stadium has undergone several renovations, most notably in 2019 when the pitch was lowered and the moat removed, adding more seats and bringing spectators closer to the action. Despite its exposure to the elements, which earned it the nickname "Estadio de la Pulmonía" (Pneumonia Stadium), José Zorrilla remains an atmospheric venue where passionate Castilian supporters create a formidable home advantage. The stadium represents pride for Spain's historic heartland.

Key Features

✓Only purpose-built stadium for the 1982 FIFA World Cup
✓Named after Romantic poet José Zorrilla, native of Valladolid
✓Distinctive horseshoe design with enclosed southern end
✓Renovated in 2019 with lowered pitch and removed moat for better sightlines
✓Notorious for harsh weather conditions, nicknamed "Pneumonia Stadium"

History

Estadio José Zorrilla officially opened on 20 February 1982 with a league match between Real Valladolid and Athletic Club, which Valladolid won 1-0. Designed by architect Ricardo Soria and completed at a cost of around 800 million pesetas, it was the only stadium built from scratch specifically for the 1982 World Cup. The venue was named after José Zorrilla y Moral (1817-1893), the Romantic poet famous for "Don Juan Tenorio", who was born in Valladolid. When it opened, the stadium featured an open horseshoe shape with three sides and a capacity just over 30,000. The design deliberately left the southern end open, creating a distinctive appearance. During the 1982 World Cup, the stadium hosted three group-stage matches. However, its exposed position on flat terrain and the open design left spectators vulnerable to Valladolid's cold winds and rain. This quickly earned it the infamous nickname "Estadio de la Pulmonía" (Pneumonia Stadium). In 1986, the club decided to enclose the stadium by adding a stand at the north end, creating the current horseshoe configuration and raising capacity to 37,500. This improvement provided better weather protection though the exposed nature remained. In 1995, following the Taylor Report and Spanish safety regulations, the stadium was converted to all-seater, significantly reducing capacity. Subsequent safety and comfort improvements further reduced numbers to around 26,512. The most significant recent renovation came in 2019, when major works saw the pitch lowered and the moat separating fans from the field removed. This allowed additional seating to be installed and brought spectators much closer to the action, raising capacity to the current 27,618. These improvements transformed the viewing experience whilst maintaining the stadium's historic character. Real Valladolid's history of yo-yoing between divisions means the stadium has experienced varying atmospheres, from Primera División intensity to Segunda División determination.

Seating Guide

Estadio José Zorrilla features a distinctive horseshoe configuration with the southern end enclosed. The stadium is divided into four main stands: Tribuna (main stand/west), Preferencia (east), Fondo Sur (south end), and Fondo Norte (north end), with numbered sections throughout. The Tribuna (West stand) is the main grandstand, housing the presidential box, press facilities, and premium seating. Central sections (roughly sections 20-28) offer the best overall views with elevated positions ideal for following tactical play. These premium areas typically cost €45-70 for La Liga matches and feature the most comfortable seating and best facilities. Corporate hospitality is concentrated in the Tribuna, with VIP boxes providing the highest level of comfort. The Preferencia (East stand), opposite the main stand, offers similarly good elevated views at more moderate prices (€35-60). The central sections provide excellent value with viewing quality comparable to the Tribuna without premium pricing. This side has become increasingly popular with regular supporters and families seeking good sightlines without corporate costs. The 2019 renovation particularly improved this stand's proximity to the pitch. The Fondo Sur (South end) houses Real Valladolid's most passionate supporters, including the "Herrera 1928" ultra group. This section generates constant noise, displays banners and flags, and leads the stadium chanting. The atmosphere is intense and authentic, perfect for supporters prioritizing passion over viewing angles. Behind-the-goal perspectives naturally limit tactical observation but maximize emotional involvement. Tickets here range from €30-50 and represent the heart of home support. The Fondo Norte (North end) typically accommodates away supporters in designated sections, usually corners and central areas depending on allocation. Local fans also occupy parts of this stand. The atmosphere can be good, particularly when significant away support arrives, though it's generally less intense than the Sur. Families sometimes choose this area for its balance of atmosphere and accessibility, with tickets around €30-55. The 2019 pitch-lowering and moat removal dramatically improved sightlines throughout, particularly in lower rows which previously had restricted views. Mid-tier rows (approximately rows 12-30) now offer the best combination of proximity and overview. The horseshoe design means most sections provide good viewing angles, though corner sections naturally have more oblique perspectives. Facilities vary throughout the stadium, with the Tribuna offering the best concourses, bathrooms, and concession areas. Other sections have more basic but functional amenities. Legroom is adequate in most areas following renovations, though some older sections retain tighter spacing.

Match Day Experience

Match day at Estadio José Zorrilla offers an authentic Castilian football experience in Spain's historic heartland. The stadium is located southwest of Valladolid city centre, in an area that comes alive on match days with anticipation and purple-and-white colours. The weather can be unpredictable - Valladolid experiences hot summers, cold winters, and can be windy year-round, so dressing appropriately is advisable. Fans typically gather in Valladolid's city centre hours before kickoff, particularly around Plaza Mayor and the streets of the old town. The pre-match ritual centers on traditional Castilian cuisine and drinks. Local bars serve "tapas" including Valladolid specialities like "lechazo asado" (roast lamb), "morcilla" (blood sausage), and local wines from the nearby Ribera del Duero region. The atmosphere in city centre bars builds as kickoff approaches, with discussions ranging from football to local politics. Approaching the stadium, you'll see the purple-and-white club colours displayed prominently on scarves, flags, and merchandise sold by street vendors. The area around José Zorrilla fills with supporters, creating a carnival-like atmosphere. Despite Valladolid's smaller size compared to Spain's major cities, the passion for Real Valladolid runs deep, with the club representing pride for the entire Castile and León region. Inside, the stadium atmosphere builds from about 30 minutes before kickoff. The Herrera 1928 ultra group in the Fondo Sur leads coordinated chanting, often with impressive tifos and constant singing. The enclosed horseshoe design helps sound reverberate effectively, creating an intimidating environment for opponents when the stadium is full. The passionate but knowledgeable Castilian support appreciates technical football whilst vocally demanding effort and commitment. Concessions offer typical stadium fare including bocadillos, hot dogs, and drinks, though many fans prefer to eat beforehand given Valladolid's excellent traditional cuisine. Stadium facilities are functional with improved bathrooms and concourses following recent renovations, though some sections retain more basic amenities reflecting the stadium's age. The match day crowd is diverse, representing a cross-section of Valladolid society - families, dedicated ultras, elderly supporters who remember the club's glory days, and younger fans. There's a strong sense of community and regional identity. The club's history of yo-yoing between divisions means fans have learned to appreciate being in La Liga whilst remaining realistic and grounded. Weather significantly affects the experience. On cold, windy, or rainy days, the stadium lives up to its "Pneumonia Stadium" nickname, with exposed sections feeling the elements despite the enclosure. However, this creates a uniquely hardy atmosphere where attending matches in challenging conditions becomes a badge of honour. On pleasant days, José Zorrilla is far more comfortable and enjoyable. Post-match, fans return to Valladolid's city centre, particularly the areas around Plaza Mayor and Calle de la Pasión. Traditional bars and wine cellars become post-match gathering spots where supporters discuss the game over drinks and food. The civilized atmosphere means families feel comfortable throughout.

Getting There

🚇 Metro

Valladolid does not have a metro system. The city relies on an extensive bus network, taxis, and walking for transport to the stadium. The city's manageable size and flat terrain make most locations accessible.

🚌 Bus

Several city bus lines serve Estadio José Zorrilla. Routes 5, 10, and D all stop near the stadium. From Valladolid city centre (Campo Grande or Plaza Mayor areas), take line 5 or 10, which run frequently especially on match days. Journey time is approximately 15-20 minutes. AUVASA operates Valladolid's bus network.

🅿️ Parking

Parking is available in streets around the stadium and in nearby designated parking areas. The stadium area has more parking availability than many Spanish venues, though spaces still fill on match days. Arriving 60-90 minutes early is advisable for drivers. Traffic approaching the stadium can be moderate before kickoff but is generally more manageable than in larger cities.

🚶 From City Center

The stadium is approximately 3.5km from Valladolid city centre (Campo Grande area). For those staying centrally, it's a 40-45 minute walk through residential areas. The flat terrain makes walking easy, and some fans enjoy the stroll as part of the match day experience. Taxis are readily available and affordable for those preferring not to walk.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Estadio José Zorrilla has a current capacity of 27,618 spectators following the 2019 renovation which lowered the pitch and removed the moat. The capacity has varied throughout its history, peaking at 37,500 after the 1986 enclosure.

The stadium opened on 20 February 1982 with Real Valladolid defeating Athletic Club 1-0. It was the only purpose-built stadium constructed specifically for the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

The nickname "Estadio de la Pulmonía" (Pneumonia Stadium) arose due to the stadium's exposed location on flat terrain and harsh weather conditions. Cold winds, rain, and unpredictable Castilian weather made early matches uncomfortable for spectators.

Yes, Estadio José Zorrilla hosted three group-stage matches during the 1982 FIFA World Cup. It was the only stadium built from scratch specifically for that tournament.

City buses are convenient, with routes 5, 10, and D serving the stadium. Taxis are also readily available. The stadium is about 3.5km from the city centre, making it walkable for those who don't mind a 40-45 minute stroll on flat terrain.

Valladolid's city centre, particularly around Plaza Mayor, offers excellent traditional Castilian cuisine. Try local specialities like lechazo asado (roast lamb) and wines from nearby Ribera del Duero. Many traditional bars and restaurants provide authentic pre-match dining.

Yes, the stadium has designated accessible seating and facilities for disabled supporters. It's advisable to contact Real Valladolid in advance to arrange appropriate seating and assistance.

Real Valladolid offers stadium tours on non-match days, typically including access to the pitch, dressing rooms, and tunnel. Booking in advance through the club's official website is recommended.

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