The Kippax Stand
The iconic terrace that became one of the tallest stands in the country.
The Kippax was a terraced stand at Manchester City's Maine Road ground in Manchester, England.
- Stadium Era
- Maine Road (1934–2003), Etihad Stadium (2003–Present)
Lore & Background
Originally the Popular Side when the stadium opened in 1923, its name was changed in 1956 when the club built a roof over it, after Kippax Street which ran along the side of the ground (named in turn for the town of Kippax, West Yorkshire). The Kippax was unusual in being a terrace which ran the length of one side of the pitch rather than behind one of the goals. In the summer of 1994, due to the Taylor Report on the Hillsborough disaster, the Kippax was demolished and a new all seater stand built in its place. This new stand was completed in stages over the course of eighteen months and was finally opened by City legend Bert Trautmann on 16 September 1995. It housed 10,178 seated fans and had three tiers. The club left Maine Road in May 2003 and relocated to the City of Manchester Stadium. Maine Road was demolished in early 2004. Unofficially, the East Stand at the new stadium is also called The Kippax.
In Their Own Story
The floodlights didn't just hum; they crackled with a low-voltage tension that vibrated through the steel ribs of the stand before kick-off. Inside the Kippax, silence was a stranger. The air hung heavy, thick with the collective breath of thousands and the sharp scent of rain on concrete. Then came the surge: a sea of sky-blue scarves unfurled in a synchronized wave that seemed to physically heave the stadium structure. 'Blue Moon' started as a low rumble from the back rows, rapidly swelling into a deafening roar that swallowed the distant murmur of the opposition. Here, time didn't tick by minutes; it pulsed with the rhythm of a drum and the cadence of a thousand voices singing in unison. An old-timer, face painted in fading blue stripes, gripped the railing until his knuckles turned white, eyes locked on the tunnel. He knew the drill: whatever chaos unfolded on the pitch, this stand would not stop singing until the final whistle.
Reader's Guide
The Kippax was a terraced stand at Maine Road, originally called the Popular Side. It was renamed in 1956 after Kippax Street. Demolished in summer 1994, a new all-seater stand opened in stages, completed in October 1995, with 10,178 seats and three tiers, and was the highest stand in the country at that time.
Did You Know?
- The Kippax was unusual in being a terrace that ran the length of one side of the pitch rather than behind a goal.
- The new all-seater stand was opened by City legend Bert Trautmann on 16 September 1995.
- Unofficially, the East Stand at the City of Manchester Stadium is also called The Kippax.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kippax Stand?
Originally named after a street in Moss Side, the Kippax Stand represents the most passionate and traditional section of Manchester City's fanbase. While it physically existed at Maine Road from 1934 to 2003, its spirit was carried by supporters into the Etihad Stadium rather than being rebuilt as a structure.
Where is the Kippax Stand located today?
There is no longer a physical stand named 'Kippax' at the current Etihad Stadium. Instead, the name and legacy survive through the dedicated group of ultra-fans who occupy specific sections to maintain the club's vocal atmosphere.
Why is the Kippax Stand considered important?
It serves as the spiritual heart of Manchester City, renowned for generating relentless chanting, elaborate tifos, and an unwavering atmosphere that defines the club's culture. This section ensures that the history and roar of Maine Road continue to resonate at the modern stadium.
Did the Kippax Stand move from Maine Road?
The physical stand did not move; it was left behind when the club relocated to the City of Manchester Stadium in 2003. However, the identity and traditions of the Kippax were successfully transported by the fans themselves to their new home.
What role does the Kippax Stand play in matches?
This group acts as the primary engine for matchday atmosphere, leading songs and creating a intimidating environment for opponents. Their presence ensures that the club's history roars louder than any goal scored on the pitch.
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