In autumn 2023, for nine home matches, SG Dynamo Dresden welcomed a total of 259,556 spectators, averaging 28,840 per game. No other team in the third league can keep up with them. For comparison, Bielefeld and Essen had an average of around 17,000 fans. Therefore, the club's officials are planning to modernize Rudolf Harbig Stadium.

Seeking solutions

The Rudolf Harbig Stadium was opened in 2009 and can accommodate 32,066 people. SGD could sell even more tickets because there is demand for them. However, space is limited because according to league regulations, 10% of the total capacity, around 3,200 tickets, must remain available for visiting fans. To counteract this imbalance, the club is planning renovations.

According to Tag24, the Saxons want to install so-called Vario seats (folding seats) in the two upper rows of the standing guest sector. This way, we can offer standing places, and during matches against opponents who have fewer fans, we can use the seats for our supporters, explained David Fischer. This measure will increase the number of available seats by 1,400. It will not affect safety issues either because groups of fans can be efficiently separated from each other.

Of course, initially, the club will incur renovation costs, which are quite substantial considering its capabilities, but in the longer term, SGD will benefit financially from this: If we sold all these additional seats for at least three home matches, the investment would pay off, Fischer explained. However, it is not yet known when this modernization will take place.

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Extraordinary attraction

For many years, the Rudolf Harbig Stadium has offered an extraordinary attraction for its fans. It is possible to get married and celebrate this event at the venue. The company managing the stadium advertises its offer as a wedding in the most exciting place in Dresden" and the "home of SG Dynamo Dresden. Get married and celebrate in a place where thousands of people usually experience their most beautiful and memorable moments at concerts and sporting events, reads the offer.

For the wedding reception, one can choose between a modern VIP lodge and a stylish lodge with direct access to the stands and a fantastic view inside the stadium. The ceremony includes a reception, a stadium tour for guests, and a photo session in Dynamo's dressing room. Since 2013, over 50 couples have promised loyalty at the Dresden stadium.

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