In 1972, something big happened in the Nadezhda neighbourhood – Lokomotiv (Sofia) acquired its own ground, close to the Northern Park, which was under construction. Initially, the sports facility had a single stand with 6,000 seats, changing rooms, showers, and a huge dose of hope. On 22 April, the ‘Railwaymen’ inaugurated their new home with a match against Marek, at exactly 4 pm.

Over time, the stadium has been expanded. A sports complex comprising training and competition halls has been added, and the stands have been extended. Today, the venue can accommodate nearly 25,000 people. The most impressive feature is the east stand with a canopy, built between 1981 and 1985, covering around 80% of the seating. Further renovations took place in 1989, and in 2000 a further 4,000 seats were added – because every passionate crowd deserves a place.

But “Lokomotiv” is not just about football. In recent decades, it has hosted music concerts where the pitch has become a stage for legends – Black Sabbath, Depeche Mode, Iron Maiden, Elton John, QUEEN. Names that still echo off the stadium walls to this day.