Mendizorrotza Stadium

Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain

Capacity

19,840

Opened

1924

Surface

Grass

Home Team

Deportivo Alavés

Overview

Mendizorrotza Stadium, officially known as Estadio de Mendizorrotza, has been the home of Deportivo Alavés since 1924, making it one of Spain's oldest continuously used football venues. With a capacity of 19,840 spectators, this historic stadium has witnessed a century of Basque football history. Located in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country and Álava province, Mendizorrotza embodies tradition, resilience, and regional identity. The stadium has undergone numerous renovations throughout its near-century existence, most notably in 1999 when it was extensively modernised ahead of Alavés' memorable UEFA Cup run. The distinctive blue and white seats reflect the club's colours, whilst the intimate design creates a passionate atmosphere despite the modest capacity. Mendizorrotza represents the heart of Alavés' identity, having hosted some of the club's greatest moments including their historic 2001 UEFA Cup final appearance. The venue combines historic charm with modern facilities, creating a unique matchday experience in the Basque Country.

Key Features

✓One of Spain's oldest stadiums, opened in 1924 with century-long history
✓Capacity of 19,840 creating an intimate and passionate atmosphere
✓Extensively renovated in 1999 ahead of memorable UEFA Cup campaign
✓Distinctive blue and white seats matching Deportivo Alavés colours
✓Located in Vitoria-Gasteiz, capital city of the Basque Country

History

Estadio de Mendizorrotza opened on 27 April 1924, making it one of Spanish football's most historic venues. Named after the Mendizorrotza neighbourhood where it's located, the stadium initially featured basic facilities with a much smaller capacity. For decades, Mendizorrotza served Alavés through the various tiers of Spanish football, witnessing the club's fluctuations and gradual development. The stadium underwent incremental improvements throughout the mid-20th century, including stand expansions and facility upgrades. The 1970s and 1980s saw further development as Spanish football modernised, with Mendizorrotza adding covered sections and improved amenities. The most transformative period came in the late 1990s. When Alavés achieved promotion to La Liga in 1998, the club embarked on an ambitious renovation project. Between 1998-1999, Mendizorrotza underwent extensive reconstruction, virtually rebuilding the entire stadium. Three stands were completely rebuilt, modern seating was installed throughout, corporate facilities were added, and the stadium was brought up to UEFA standards. The renovation increased capacity to approximately 19,840 and transformed Mendizorrotza into a modern venue whilst preserving its historic character. The timing proved perfect - Alavés immediately embarked on a fairy-tale UEFA Cup run in 2000-2001, reaching the final where they faced Liverpool in Dortmund. Mendizorrotza witnessed the historic journey, hosting memorable European nights against Internazionale, Kaiserslautern, and Rayo Vallecano. The stadium atmosphere during this golden era became legendary. In subsequent years, further improvements have maintained the stadium's facilities. Mendizorrotza has hosted numerous significant matches including intense Basque derbies against Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad, which create extraordinary atmospheres. The stadium represents more than football - it's a symbol of Vitoria-Gasteiz identity and Alavés' remarkable history of punching above their weight.

Seating Guide

Mendizorrotza Stadium features a traditional four-stand configuration, with each section offering distinct characteristics. The stadium comprises Tribuna Principal (Main Stand), Tribuna Preferencia (Opposite Stand), Fondo Norte (North End), and Fondo Sur (South End). The Tribuna Principal (West stand) offers the best overall views and houses VIP boxes, press facilities, and corporate hospitality areas. Central sections provide elevated, panoramic views ideal for following match tactics and flow. These premium seats typically cost €50-75 for La Liga matches and include access to comfortable facilities. The covered roof provides protection from Vitoria's variable weather, which can include rain throughout the year. This stand represents the traditional heart of Mendizorrotza. The Tribuna Preferencia (East stand), opposite the main stand, offers similarly good views at more accessible prices, typically €35-55. This stand is popular with season ticket holders and local families. The atmosphere is supportive and knowledgeable, with many long-term supporters occupying these sections. Central areas provide excellent value, with views comparable to the main stand. This section houses many of Alavés' most dedicated traditional supporters. The Fondo Sur (South end) houses Alavés' most passionate supporters, including ultra groups who create the stadium's atmosphere. This section generates constant noise, displays banners and flags, and leads the chanting throughout matches. The atmosphere here is intense and authentic, creating Mendizorrotza's characteristic passionate environment. The behind-the-goal perspective means overall views are less ideal for following play across the pitch, but the experience is unmatched for atmosphere. Tickets are generally affordable at €30-50. The Fondo Norte (North end) provides good atmosphere and is typically where away supporters are allocated, usually in corner or side sections. Some home supporters also occupy this end. The atmosphere varies depending on the visiting club and rivalry intensity. For major derbies against Basque rivals Athletic Bilbao or Real Sociedad, the entire stadium becomes electric. Ticket prices range from €30-55. The stadium's relatively small size and compact design mean all seats offer reasonable proximity to the pitch. The 1999 renovation ensured good sightlines throughout, though lower rows in corners can have slightly restricted views when play is on the far side. Mid-level rows (approximately rows 10-20) offer the best combination of closeness and overview. The intimate size contributes to Mendizorrotza's reputation for atmosphere, with even the highest rows feeling connected to the action. The covered sections provide protection from weather, important given Vitoria's climate.

Match Day Experience

Match day at Mendizorrotza offers an authentic Basque football experience that combines regional passion with nearly a century of tradition. The stadium is located close to Vitoria-Gasteiz city centre, making it easily accessible and integrated into the city's fabric. Fans typically gather in Vitoria's historic Casco Viejo (medieval quarter) several hours before kickoff, particularly around Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, the city's main square. The pre-match ritual centres around the traditional Basque "poteo" or "txikiteo" - hopping between bars sampling "pintxos" and small drinks. The Casco Viejo's narrow streets fill with blue and white colours as supporters enjoy local specialities whilst building anticipation. Bars around Calle Cuchillería and surrounding areas are particularly popular with Alavés fans. Approaching Mendizorrotza, located just a short walk from the centre, you'll see increasing numbers of fans in club colours. The stadium sits in a residential area, giving it a neighbourhood feel. Street vendors sell scarves, programmes, and snacks around the venue. The approach has an intimate, community atmosphere rather than the overwhelming scale of larger stadiums. Inside Mendizorrotza, the atmosphere is passionate and authentic. Despite the modest size, the acoustics are excellent, with chanting reverberating around the compact bowl. The ultra groups in the Fondo Sur lead displays with flags, banners, and coordinated singing. The club anthem and traditional songs are sung with pride. For major matches, particularly Basque derbies, the atmosphere becomes extraordinary - the entire stadium creates constant noise, making it genuinely intimidating for opponents. Concessions offer standard stadium fare including bocadillos, hot dogs, drinks, and local snacks. Many fans prefer eating beforehand given Vitoria's excellent pintxos culture. Stadium facilities, modernised in the 1999 renovation, are good with adequate bathrooms and concourses. The compact nature means these areas can become crowded at half-time. The demographic is diverse and family-friendly, with multi-generational groups common. There's a strong sense of local and regional identity - Alavés represents Vitoria-Gasteiz and connects to broader Basque identity. The club's remarkable history, particularly the 2001 UEFA Cup final run, remains a source of immense pride. Many supporters remember the golden era and remain fiercely loyal through subsequent fluctuations. Post-match, fans return to the city centre, particularly the Casco Viejo. Plaza de la Virgen Blanca and surrounding streets fill with supporters discussing the match over pintxos and drinks. The compact nature of Vitoria means the post-match experience feels communal. The city's excellent bar scene ensures lively atmosphere continues into the evening, with outdoor terraces popular in good weather and cosy traditional bars in cooler months.

Getting There

🚇 Metro

Vitoria-Gasteiz does not have a metro system. The city is compact and walkable, with an efficient tram system connecting key areas, supplemented by buses and taxis. The stadium is within easy walking distance from the city centre.

🚌 Bus

Several urban bus lines serve the area near Mendizorrotza. Routes 2, 3, and 8 stop within walking distance of the stadium. However, given the stadium's proximity to the city centre (approximately 1km from Plaza de la Virgen Blanca), many fans simply walk. Tuvisa operates Vitoria's urban bus network, with increased services on match days.

🅿️ Parking

Mendizorrotza has limited parking directly at the stadium. Street parking is available in surrounding residential areas, though spaces fill quickly before matches. There are several public car parks in the city centre within walking distance. The Artium car park and Plaza de los Fueros car park are good options. Arriving at least 90 minutes early is recommended for drivers. Many locals simply walk given the stadium's central location.

🚶 From City Center

Mendizorrotza is approximately 1km from Vitoria-Gasteiz city centre (Plaza de la Virgen Blanca). It's a straightforward 10-15 minute walk through pleasant neighbourhoods. From the Casco Viejo, head north along Eduardo Dato street towards Paseo de Cervantes. Many fans walk to and from matches, making it part of the matchday tradition. The city's compact nature makes walking the preferred option for most supporters.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Mendizorrotza has a capacity of 19,840 spectators following the extensive 1999 renovation. This makes it one of La Liga's smaller venues, but the intimate size creates excellent atmosphere.

Mendizorrotza opened on 27 April 1924, making it one of Spain's oldest continuously used football stadiums with nearly a century of history. The stadium has been Deportivo Alavés' home throughout this entire period.

Mendizorrotza hosted Alavés' remarkable 2000-2001 UEFA Cup campaign, which saw them reach the final against Liverpool. The stadium witnessed historic European nights, with victories over major clubs on the way to Dortmund.

The stadium is only about 1km from Plaza de la Virgen Blanca in the city centre - a straightforward 10-15 minute walk. Many fans simply walk to and from matches. Buses (routes 2, 3, 8) and taxis are also available.

Basque derbies against Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad create extraordinary atmospheres at Mendizorrotza. The entire stadium generates constant noise and passion, making these matches special experiences for both home and neutral supporters.

The Fondo Sur (South end) houses the ultra groups and creates the most intense atmosphere. However, given Mendizorrotza's compact size, atmosphere is good throughout the stadium, particularly for important matches.

Absolutely! Vitoria-Gasteiz is the Basque Country capital with a beautiful medieval quarter, excellent pintxos culture, the renowned Artium contemporary art museum, and a green belt of parks. It's ideal for combining match visits with cultural tourism.

Deportivo Alavés offers stadium tours on non-match days, typically including the pitch, dressing rooms, tunnel, and club museum showcasing the historic UEFA Cup campaign. Booking in advance through the club's website is recommended.

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