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The completion of a $53.5 million upgrade program at Adelaide’s Coopers Stadium is set to deliver an enhanced matchday experience for players and fans alike - with the introduction of a ‘safe-standing’ area one of its most significant features.

Unveiled yesterday in advance of the A-Leagues’ 2024/2025 season kicking off next month, the investment in Adelaide’s ‘Home of Football’ by the South Australian Government and Coopers Stadium operators Adelaide Venue Management (AVM) has seen the installation of a new pitch along with 15 new screens (two large video replay screens and 13 digital signage screens across seven of the venue’s bars).

Introduced as part of upgraded active supporter areas throughout the venue to further build vibrancy and fan engagement, the ‘safe-standing’ area was developed in consultation with Adelaide United and the Red Army supporters group. It comprises two bays behind the Stadium’s northern goals (N13 and N14), bringing more energy and atmosphere to the all-important home team end.

Seats in the designated safe standing zone will be locked during A-League matches to form temporary terraces, providing fans with room to comfortably and safely stand and cheer during games, and will then be readjusted for other events at the Stadium, such as music concerts. Rails have also been installed, within these bays to further support fan safety.

The pitch redevelopment, which was the final piece of the Stadium upgrade, was an extensive three-months process, which commenced in June 2024 and is now completed. Following the removal of the old pitch, which was repurposed by Glenelg Golf Club, the specialised works included installation of a superior, drought-tolerant turf surface, well-suited to Adelaide's climate; new state-of-the-art drainage and irrigation systems; and FIFA-approved synthetic sideline edging for player warm ups.

The new pitch coincides with the A-Leagues’ season opener and will support Adelaide United and other visiting teams as they strive for the highest playing and training performances.

These latest enhancements follow on the heels of Coopers Stadium claiming double honours in the latest Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) stadium rankings, as voted by the A-League players themselves. At the end of the A-Leagues’ 2023/2024 season, the PFA announced that Coopers Stadium had been voted as having the best atmosphere in the ISUZU-UTE A-League Men’s competition by the players for the second consecutive year. Coopers Stadium was also voted the premier venue for football in the NINJA A-League Women’s competition by its players.

Commenting on the upgrades, AVM Chief Executive, Martin Radcliffe stated “AVM is committed to best supporting our community. We take great pride in not only our facilities and playing surface at Coopers Stadium, but also our partnership with Adelaide United to ensure an outstanding fan experience.

“We’re really excited about the new elements we’ve added to the Stadium this season. Safe standing, which will be an Adelaide first, is something the fans have long wanted. We’re really pleased to have worked with Adelaide United and the Red Army to find a solution that suits all parties, helping passionate fans best get behind their team.

“Our intimate design ensures a unique fan experience in Australia.”

Adelaide United Football Club Chief Executive, Nathan Kosmina added “Coopers Stadium is the spiritual home of football in South Australia, and the latest upgrades enhance the match day experience for both players and fans, further cementing Coopers Stadium as the best football venue in Australia.”

The A-Leagues’ 2024/2025 season officially gets underway at Coopers Stadium on 26th October as Adelaide United takes on the Central Coast Mariners. This year’s fixture includes six double-header matches, providing equal billing to the men’s and women’s teams.

Images: New safe standing at Adelaide’s Coopers Stadium (top) and the venue's new playing surface and Vidmar stand (below).

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