25/09/2024, Editorial Board
Ludogorets Arena, now known as Huvepharma Arena after its owner, is a modern football stand in Razgrad and home to local club Ludogorec Razgrad. Originally built in the 1950s, the stadium underwent extensive renovations in 2011 as Ludogorets began its journey to the top of Bulgarian football. Let’s take a look at how the stadium has evolved and what significant moments have been seen there.
Looking at Ludogorets Arena today, it’s hard to believe that this stadium has such a long history behind it. The modern stands, which can accommodate up to 10,471 spectators, and top-quality equipment meet all the requirements for holding matches not only in the Bulgarian league, but also in European competitions.
The stadium is located in the north of Razgrad, just a few minutes’ walk from the iconic clock tower in the center. Its strategic location makes it an ideal location for football fans from all over the region.
In 2017, the stadium underwent an extensive renovation, which included the modernization of the stands, facilities for players and the installation of heated turf. Despite its relatively small size, it now meets all UEFA standards for hosting international matches. It was at this shrine that Ludogorets won many important victories, including those in European cups.
One of the most memorable moments was the duel against Germany’s Hoffenheim in the group stage of the Europa League in the 2017/2018 season, when Ludogorets won 2:1. This match went down in the club’s history as one of the biggest successes on the European stage.
Another significant moment was the victory over CSKA Moscow in 2019, when Ludogorets was able to turn around the unfavorable development of the duel and won 5:1. Claudia Kessera scored a hat-trick in twenty-one minutes. This match showed the strength and determination of the team and confirmed its position among the elite of European football.
Although the average attendance at a Ludogorca home game in the Bulgarian league does not reach high numbers – only around 370 attended the last league match – the stadium comes alive in European competitions. Matches against famous opponents attract thousands of fans and the atmosphere in the arena is stormy and noisy.
“I remember the stadium was not that big. The stand for the away sector was half full, but we played a great result here and took one point away. I have one more memory from here, namely the team photo. It was the last round and we all already knew that I was leaving Černo More for Slavia, so we took a picture together in the booth here at the stadium,” recalls Přemysl Kovář, who worked in Bulgaria in the 2016/17 season.
