Fotballfesten AS is investing 25 million NOK to transform Ullevaal Stadium into a massive fan zone for up to 35,000 supporters during the upcoming European Championship. The event, which includes a central stage and 1,200 tables, is scheduled to be ready in time for Norway’s match against Iraq this Tuesday night.
What are the logistics for the 35,000 supporters?
The arrangement at Ullevaal Stadium aims to accommodate a total of 35,000 people. This includes up to 25,000 spectators in stadium seats and additional attendees at tables placed on the pitch.
To support the crowd, the organizers have planned the following infrastructure:
- A central stage for various artists located in the middle of the pitch.
- A “cube” of large-scale screens measuring 4×60 square meters, totaling 240 square meters of screen area.
- 40-meter-long bars positioned along the side of the pitch.
- Four new machines designed to tap eight beers simultaneously.
- Two massive tanks containing 24,000 liters of beer each.
Geir Oterhals, the daily manager of Fotballfesten AS, stated that approximately 500 employees will be working during the final group stage match against France. The workforce includes logistics and service staff, as well as medical personnel consisting of five doctors, including one heart specialist.
How much will the Ullevaal fan zone cost?
The total cost to set up the event at Ullevaal is 25 million NOK, according to Oterhals. While the company saw a turnover of 40 million NOK during the 2024 European Championship year, Oterhals admitted that this specific project is not expected to yield a large profit.
“It’s probably a bit more heart than brain in this,” Oterhals said regarding the financial viability of the setup.
Revenue is primarily driven by table bookings. For the match against France, tables are priced at 4,500 NOK, a package that includes a scarf and one beer for each guest. Currently, 1,000 of the 1,200 ordered tables have been sold, generating 4.5 million NOK in revenue. Tribune seating remains available for between 0 and 100 NOK.
Why was there skepticism from the NFF?
The Norwegian Football Federation (NFF), which owns the stadium, initially expressed skepticism regarding the project. Oterhals noted that the primary concern involved the impact on the playing surface. To accommodate the event, the grass must be shaved down, leaving only artificial turf in certain areas.
Oterhals clarified that Fotballfesten AS serves as the organizer, comparing the arrangement to a Live Nation-managed Ed Sheeran concert rather than an NFF-led event. The dream of hosting the event at Ullevaal has been in development for approximately 1.5 years.
What happens if Norway advances further in the tournament?
The current lease for the stadium is only secured through the round of 16. If Norway continues to progress in the tournament, the organizers may face logistical hurdles regarding the pitch.
Because it takes two months to sow new grass, Oterhals suggested that NFF leadership, including Lise Klaveness and Karl Petter Løken, would likely need to intervene if the team reaches the quarterfinals or beyond. Such an intervention would be necessary to prevent the event from closing prematurely during a period of high demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people can attend the event at Ullevaal?
The event can host up to 35,000 people, combining 25,000 stadium seats with those attending at tables on the pitch.
What is included in the 4,500 NOK table package?
According to the organizer, the package for the France match includes a table and one beer and a scarf for each guest.
Why is the grass at the stadium being changed?
The grass must be shaved down to accommodate the event setup, which Oterhals stated results in only artificial grass remaining in those areas.
Will the scale of this fan zone change how Norwegian supporters experience major football tournaments?
