Arena Fonte Nova

Overview

About the stadium

Arena Fonte Nova is a modern football stadium in Salvador, in the state of Bahia, Brazil. Opened on 7 April 2013 on the site of the legendary old Estádio Fonte Nova, it is the home of EC Bahia, while EC Vitória also plays selected matches here. With a capacity of 47,902 spectators, it ranks among the finest arenas in northeastern Brazil.

An open horseshoe over the lagoon

The arena's defining feature is its preserved horseshoe layout with an open end facing the Dique do Tororó lagoon. Its lightweight metal roof, clad in a PTFE membrane, was inspired by Hanover's AWD-Arena. The open end lets the stands look out over the water and the city skyline, giving the stadium its unmistakable character.

History

Journey through time

The site was home to the original Estádio Fonte Nova, opened in 1951. In 2007 it was struck by tragedy when part of a stand collapsed, killing seven people and injuring around forty more. The stadium was closed and demolished in August 2010, with some of its concrete recycled into the new build.

From disaster to the World Cup

The new Arena Fonte Nova opened on 7 April 2013 as one of the host venues. That same year it staged matches of the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, and a year later the 2014 FIFA World Cup, including the Netherlands' memorable 5–1 win over Spain. In 2016 it hosted Olympic football tournaments, and later matches of the 2019 Copa América.

Atmosphere

Matchday

The atmosphere is driven by the passionate Bahian torcida of EC Bahia. The stands in blue and red can set the whole arena roaring, while samba beats and drums lend matches an unmistakably Brazilian energy. The tight horseshoe bowl keeps the sound rolling low over the pitch.

Lagoon views and concerts

The stadium's open end frames the Dique do Tororó lagoon with its colourful Iemanjá sculptures — one of the most photogenic vistas in world football. The arena is more than a football ground: it regularly hosts major concerts by Brazilian and international stars, making it one of Salvador's cultural hubs.

Practical info

Visiting the stadium

Arena Fonte Nova sits in central Salvador, in the Nazaré neighbourhood, easily reached from the historic Pelourinho district.

Practical tips

Location: Nazaré district, above the Dique do Tororó lagoon, close to central Salvador.
Getting there: the nearest metro stop is Campo da Pólvora (Line 1), a few minutes' walk away; buses and shared taxis run on weekends.
On matchday: arrive early, as the area gets busy; expect security checks at the gates.
Tip: combine your visit with a stroll through Pelourinho and a look over the lagoon before kickoff.
Capacity: 47,902 seats.