Around 50,000 visitors at the open stadium gates day
An overwhelming rush: around 50,000 visitors took possession of their new stadium on Gellertstraße throughout the day. Lord Mayor Barbara Ludwig: "That was a great start! It's great that so many people from Chemnitz came and that they like their new stadium!"
Before the official opening, the lease agreement between the city of Chemnitz and Chemnitzer FC was signed at a ceremony. Mayor Barbara Ludwig and the Chairman of the Board of Chemnitz FC, Dr Mathias Hänel, signed the agreement in the presence of Saxony's Environment Minister Thomas Schmidt and invited guests.
The Lord Mayor then officially opened the stadium. A symbolic kick-off by 11 friends brought the ball into the stadium. At this moment, 5972 blue and white balloons rose into the blue sky of Chemnitz. The number is made up of three significant dates in the club's history: 1966 foundation of the FCK, 1990 renaming of the CFC and 2016 opening of the new stadium.
From then on, the people of Chemnitz were able to take possession of their stadium. Guided tours made it possible to see every corner of the stadium - from the coaches' bench to the VIP boxes and the changing rooms. Special tours for people with disabilities were also very popular.
The highlight of the day was the very first wedding in the stadium. The CFC flag bearer and his future wife said "I do" in front of a large crowd.
On the forecourt of the Chemnitz stadium, young and old were able to take advantage of offers from numerous sports clubs and much more, including carpet curling, archery and a CFC autograph session. The Chemnitz fire brigade gave the brave ones a view of the action from above. A colourful programme was offered on the large stage of Radio Chemnitz, which reported live throughout the day. Aylin Yaren showed off her ball skills. Many interview partners were available to answer questions from Radio Chemnitz on the subject of football.
On the terrace in the stadium, the Chemnitzer FC team was introduced and then had the chance to prove themselves in a match against a city selection. The city selection, consisting of one player from each of the 28 clubs in the Chemnitz district, put up a good fight. Despite the Himmelblauen winning 10:1, an honour goal for the city selection was obligatory.
The stadium open day was supported by Eins Energie and Radio Chemnitz. The Freie Presse and the "So geht sächsisch" campaign were also partners.