The construction of Tatran Arena is nearing completion, sparking significant excitement. Recent lighting tests have demonstrated that the new facility is of the highest standard, though they have also raised concerns about the intensity of the stadium lights.

Prešov in a new light – literally and figuratively

Futbal Tatran Arena has shared videos on social media showcasing the stadium in its full glory, illuminated by evening lights. In recent weeks, several tests of the lighting system have been conducted to ensure it meets all the requirements of the Slovak Football Association and UEFA.

According to the project manager, the tests were successful, but this was only the initial phase of adjustments. Further fine-tuning is planned in the coming weeks to guarantee optimal conditions for matches. The final certification of the stadium by the relevant authorities is still in progress.

However, not all residents of Prešov are enthusiastic about these changes. Some have expressed concerns that the intense stadium lights could disrupt their daily lives, with speculation that a petition might even be launched on the issue. Despite these doubts, many locals eagerly anticipate the first matches at the new venue.

Grand opening – match of legends

Tatran Arena will officially open its doors on May 3, 2025. The inaugural event will be an exhibition match featuring legendary players of Tatran Prešov against a team of former Slovak football stars and members of the club of league sharpshooters—players who have scored at least 100 goals in Slovakia’s top division. Fans will have the chance to watch footballers who have represented Slovakia at European and World Championships, as well as European champions from 1976.

After years of planning and construction, the stadium is finally set to become a stage for top-tier football. The process was complex—after the old facility was demolished in 2018, it took until July 2023 for construction work to begin. Thanks to the collaboration between the city, the Prešov Self-Governing Region, Futbal Tatran Arena, the Slovak Football Association, and the Sports Promotion Fund, the project was successfully funded and completed.

The mayor of Prešov, František Oľha, emphasized the symbolic significance of the stadium’s opening. A modern football stadium of international importance in Prešov has been the dream of many of my predecessors. I am incredibly honored to be the mayor at the moment when we finally bring this dream to life for the people of Prešov he said in an interview with futbalsfz.sk.

Tatran Arena and the U21 European Championship

The stadium in Prešov will be one of the key venues for the U21 European Championship, which kicks off on June 11, 2025. UEFA recently inspected eight stadiums in Slovakia to assess their readiness for the tournament. While concerns were raised a few months ago about whether the Prešov stadium would be completed on time, organizers are now optimistic.

If nothing unexpected happens, the great effort of everyone involved will pay off, said Mária Berdisová, director of the U21 European Championship organizing committee, in an interview with ŠPORT.sk. The level of stadium preparation directly correlates with their experience in hosting national and international events. The easiest situation in terms of infrastructure readiness is in Bratislava, while the stadium in Nitra will require the most additional modifications and adjustments, she added.

Before the tournament begins, the stadium will undergo further testing, including two trial matches. The first—an exhibition match featuring legendary players—will take place on May 3. The second will be a UEFA Women’s Nations League qualifier between Slovakia and Gibraltar on May 30, 2025. These events will serve as test runs to ensure all systems and procedures are fully operational for the major tournament.

Final stretch before big tournament

With less than 100 days to go until the U21 European Championship, organizers are entering the most intense phase of preparations. Logistics, stadium infrastructure, and ticket sales are being fine-tuned. In March, UEFA is expected to release some of the previously blocked seating, allowing for another wave of ticket sales.

Significant attention has also been given to training facilities for the participating teams. Each national team will have a dedicated training ground, though their locations remain undisclosed. Organizers assure that the highest standards of preparation and privacy have been secured for the squads.