October 1, 2024

CA Osasuna and the Enchantment of El Sadar: The Award-Winning Stadium Known for Its Roaring Atmosphere – La Liga

Credit to La Liga Image Gallery

CA Osasuna is set to compete in this Saturday’s Copa del Rey final in Seville. Although the team will be playing far from their home city of Pamplona, they owe much of their success to the unforgettable nights at their iconic stadium, El Sadar, which played a crucial role in their journey to the final.

El Sadar is a remarkable venue with a unique distinction. In 2021, it was recognized as the ‘World Stadium of the Year’ by Stadium Database, a renowned publication focused on global stadiums and sports infrastructure. This prestigious title was awarded based on a popular vote, which acknowledged the impressive redevelopment carried out at El Sadar by OFS Architects and construction firm VDR.

This recognition marked a significant achievement, as El Sadar became the first LaLiga stadium to receive this honor in the award’s first 10 editions. Among 23 sports venues nominated worldwide for projects completed or renovated in 2021, CA Osasuna’s home ground stood out as a model of innovation and excellence in stadium design.

As Stadium Database explained: “The former El Sadar, built in 1967, looked run down and did not meet LaLiga requirements. Therefore, in 2018, the club decided to undertake a major revamp combined with an extension. The structural elements of the old facility served as the basis for the creation of a modern and striking arena for more than 23,500 fans, the signature of which is the omnipresent red. The way the design was chosen was unique. For the first time ever, fans decided what the new stadium should look like.”

They continued: “First of all, a new roof had to be built over all four stands. This increased the budget of the investment. But the architectural aspects were improved, as the facility now forms a consistent structure. The stadium is rectangular in shape with sharp edges and the roof resembles a giant red ring. On the other hand, the lower level of the south stand is equipped with 1,272 metal seats, which when folded take up little space and allow for comfortable cheering while standing.”

Stadium Database commended several elements of the stadium’s redevelopment, emphasizing the enhancements made to elevate the matchday experience for fans, including greater comfort and convenience. Additionally, they highlighted the improvements in facilities for staff and media, which have been thoughtfully upgraded to better serve their needs. The club’s efforts to create new revenue streams through strategic design and innovations also received recognition, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to maximizing the venue’s potential.“As part of the work carried out, a new presidential suite and business boxes were created in the grandstand. On the first floor, offices for club staff, a conference room and media space were built. The VIP area can now accommodate 1,389 people, 450 more than before.”

Among the newly built and renovated stadiums nominated for the ‘World Stadium of the Year 2021’ award, El Sadar stood out not only for its quality but also for its cost-efficiency. With the exception of some projects in Turkey and Argentina, where construction expenses are generally lower, the El Sadar redevelopment was the most budget-friendly. While the average investment for the nominated projects was €136 million, amounting to roughly €4,088 per seat, the El Sadar renovation came in at just €23.3 million, costing under €1,000 per seat. This achievement made the renovation four times more cost-effective compared to the other nominees, demonstrating the club’s ability to achieve excellence on a modest budget.

The Loudest Crowd in LaLiga Santander History

El Sadar is renowned not only for its modern design but also for its vibrant and intense atmosphere. On May 31st, 2009, the stadium became legendary for hosting the loudest crowd ever recorded in LaLiga Santander. On that decisive final matchday of the 2008/09 season, CA Osasuna faced Real Madrid, needing a victory and favorable results elsewhere to avoid relegation. Entering the match in 18th place and sitting in the relegation zone, Osasuna’s hopes were precarious, with Real Sporting, Real Betis, Getafe CF, and Real Valladolid all in close contention.

In an unforgettable game, CA Osasuna secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Real Madrid, while elsewhere, Getafe played to a draw and Real Betis and Real Valladolid also drew. These results allowed Osasuna to leapfrog all three teams, finishing the season in 15th place and condemning Real Betis to relegation. The triumph cemented El Sadar’s reputation as a fortress, with the passion of the fans proving to be a game-changing factor.

With first-half goals from Gonzalo Higuaín and Jaroslav Plašil, and with other results going against them, CA Osasuna seemed destined for relegation to LaLiga SmartBank. However, as the game neared the hour mark, Juanfran Torres—who would later enjoy a long career with Atlético de Madrid—stepped up in a crucial moment. He unleashed a stunning, long-range volley from outside the box that sailed past Iker Casillas, leaving the legendary goalkeeper helpless. Reflecting on his heroic goal after the match, Juanfran shared his thoughts with reporters:“There’s no better stadium than this to celebrate a goal like that.”

He was spot on. The 19,239 fans erupted in sheer ecstasy, generating an astonishing roar that reached 115.17 decibels—comparable to the thunderous noise of a jet engine. This deafening sound remains the highest decibel level ever recorded in a LaLiga stadium, solidifying El Sadar’s place in history as the league’s loudest venue.

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