The Estadio Alcaldesa Ester Roa Rebolledo, affectionately known as El Ester Roa, is a sports venue and a cultural landmark in Concepción, Chile. Originally built in 1962 and boasting a capacity of 35,000 at the time, the stadium has been home to countless memorable moments in football and beyond. Renovated in 2015, it now offers 30,448 modern seats and remains a cherished destination for sports fans, musicians, and the local community.
Key Highlights of Estadio Alcaldesa Ester Roa Rebolledo:
- Built: 1962
- Renovated: 2015
- Capacity: 30,448 seats
- Major Tenants: Universidad de Concepción, Fernández Vial, Deportes Concepción
- Memorable Events: 2015 Copa América, 1987 FIFA U-20 World Cup, numerous Primera División matches
- Highest Attendance: 43,340 in 1967 (Huachipato vs. Colo-Colo)
A Brief History of the Ester Roa
When it was first inaugurated as the Estadio Regional, the stadium became the heart of Concepción’s sports scene. In 2010, it was renamed in honor of Ester Roa Rebolledo, a revered former mayor of Concepción who left a legacy of dedication to public service.
The stadium’s renovation journey wasn’t without challenges. Initially managed by Spanish company COPASA, the project faced delays, leading to the termination of the contract in 2014. The work was ultimately completed by Chilean company Claro Vicuña Valenzuela just in time to host matches for the 2015 Copa América, cementing its place as a world-class venue.
Home of Local Legends
The stadium is a shared home for three major football teams in the region:
- Universidad de Concepción
- Fernández Vial
- Deportes Concepción
Additionally, Huachipato and Lota Schwager have hosted significant matches here, making it a vital hub for regional football. The teams and the fans breathe life into this iconic venue, turning every match into a spectacle of passion and community pride.
Unforgettable Matches and Events
The Ester Roa has hosted a wealth of notable events, both in football and other areas of entertainment:
Copa América
A venue for the 1991 and 2015 tournaments, it saw thrilling encounters such as Brazil vs. Paraguay in the 2015 quarter-finals and Argentina’s resounding 6-1 semi-final victory over Paraguay.
FIFA Tournaments
From the 1987 FIFA U-20 World Cup to the 2015 U-17 World Cup, it has showcased budding international talents.
Historical Record
The stadium witnessed its highest attendance of 43,340 fans in a 1967 Primera División match between Huachipato and Colo-Colo.
A Multi-Purpose Venue
While football dominates, the Ester Roa also hosts athletics tournaments, concerts, and community events. Its versatility underscores its role as a meeting point for culture and entertainment in the region.
The Soul of Concepción!
For fans of Fernández Vial and other tenants, the Ester Roa is a symbol of the city’s unyielding spirit and its love for football. Every whistle, cheer, and goal scored here resonates with the passion of the people who call Concepción home.