Free State Stadium
A multi-purpose stadium in Bloemfontein, home to the Free State Cheetahs and a host of international tournaments.
Free State Stadium, currently known as Toyota Stadium for sponsorship reasons and formerly known as Vodacom Park, is a stadium in Bloemfontein in the Free State of South Africa, used mainly for rugby union and also sometimes for association football. It was originally built for the 1995 Rugby World Cup, and was one of the venues for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
- Design Feature
- Originally built as a multi-purpose venue, later renovated for the 2010 FIFA World Cup while retaining its oval configuration
Lore & Background
The stadium was originally built for the 1995 Rugby World Cup. It hosted first-round matches in Pool C during that tournament. It was also a venue for the 1996 African Cup of Nations, the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, and the 2010 FIFA World Cup. In 2025, the stadium was downgraded to Class C status, meaning it was no longer eligible to host international rugby matches. An upgrade was completed in February 2026, restoring it to Class B, and once again eligible to host international matches.
In Their Own Story
The air in Bloemfontein is crisp as the sun begins to dip behind the stadium's towering stands. The smell of cut grass and anticipation hangs heavy over the oval pitch. As the Springboks emerge from the tunnel, the roar of nearly fifty thousand fans shakes the very foundations of the structure built for them. There are no helmets here, only the raw collision of bodies on the turf; a tackle echoes sharply, followed by the collective gasp and then the triumphant chant that rises like a tide, washing over the field in waves of green and gold.
Reader's Guide
The primary rugby union tenants are the Free State Cheetahs, which participate in the Currie Cup. Previously, the Cheetahs represented the Free State and Northern Cape provinces in the international Pro14 competition. Until their sale before the start of the 2021–22 South African Premiership, the primary association football tenant was Bloemfontein Celtic, who played in the South African Premiership. Ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a second tier was added to the main grandstand on the western side of the ground, increasing the net capacity from 36,538 to 40,911. The stadium remained oval-shaped after renovations.
Did You Know?
- The stadium was originally built for the 1995 Rugby World Cup.
- It hosted six group matches and a quarter-final match during the 1996 African Cup of Nations.
- In 2025, the stadium was downgraded to Class C status, then upgraded to Class B in February 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Free State Stadium?
It serves as a monumental tribute to rugby history located in Bloemfontein. This venue represents South African resilience through its continued use for national matches.
Who plays their home games here?
The South Africa Springboks are the primary tenants of this modern fortress. They roar on a pitch built solely for rugby during their scheduled fixtures.
Where is the stadium located geographically?
It sits within Bloemfontein in the Free State Province of the country. This central position makes it a key hub for regional supporters.
What are the unique physical characteristics?
The design features a distinctive oval shape tailored specifically for rugby play. Furthermore, the ground utilizes natural grass to maintain professional pitch quality.
Why is this stadium important to Springbok culture?
It acts as a fortress where the team draws strength from local passion and history. Matches here often highlight the enduring spirit of South African rugby fans.
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