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A veteran on the sports scene
Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein
The Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
Some famous rugby players to come out of the Free State in recent years inlcude Francois Steyn, Heinrich Brussouw, Bismarc du Plessis and Ruan Pienaar.
Refurbished for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ at a cost of R241-million, improvements to the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein have included the addition of a second tier to the western pavilion grandstand, increasing the seating capacity to 40 000.
Other upgrades for world event included the installation of new turnstiles, floodlights, electronic scoreboards, sound systems and closed circuit television (CCTV). Media facilities were also improved.
During the tournament, 6 matches were played in Bloemfontein, including South Africa's last match of the tournament in which they beat France 2-1. German fans will have fond memories of Free State Stadium, following their team's 4-1 thrashing of England in their Round of 16 clash.
This Free State Stadium is, in fact, an old hand at hosting landmark matches. Situated in the middle of the country, it's proved a convenient central location for sports fans to gather. It has been used for major tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup in 1995 and the African Cup of Nations in 1996.
South Africa's national rugby team, the Springboks, generally play one match at Free State Stadium every year.
The stadium is home to the Cheetahs, the Free State's rugby team and it regularly hosts Bloemfontein Celtic matches in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
While it is small in comparison to some of South Africa's sport stadiums, the atmosphere is arguably enhanced as a result.
Free State Stadium is conveniently located and always well attended whenever there are sporting fixtures taking place.
Bloemfontein is situated in the municipality of Mangaung, which means 'Place of the Cheetahs' in the seSotho language.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Mangaung/Bloemfontein Tourism Information
Phone: +27 (0) 51 405 8489
Fax: +27 (0) 51 447 3859
How to get here
Mangaung/Bloemfontein has an airport that offers connections to all major South African cities. The city is also well-connected by rail, and the main N1 and N8 highways run through the city.
Around the area
To the east of the city lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park and its imposing sandstone cliffs, along with the charming agricultural towns of Bethlehem and Ficksburg, and the artists’ colony of Clarens.
Tours to do
When you set out to explore the city, get a bird's eye view by starting off at its highest point at Naval Hill, surrounded by the Franklin Nature Reserve where wild game roams.
What to pack
Winter in Bloemfontein is generally fine and moderate, but cold spells do hit from time to time. Be prepared for all weather conditions.
What to eat
Bloemfontein has a large Afrikaans population, presenting an opportunity to sample hearty boerekos (farm food). Popular dishes include potjiekos (stews cooked in 3-legged cast-iron pots), boerewors (spiced sausage) and the traditional braai (barbecue).