Also known as Air Albania Stadium for sponsorship reasons, Arena Kombetare is Albania’s largest stadium.
The exterior of the stadium is magnificent, with black and red metal panels that resemble the Albanian flag, as well as glass across the entire front, including the tower.
So, if you are going to go take a look for yourself, GOAL brings you everything you need to know.
Where is Arena Kombetare?
Address: Sheshi Italia 1, Tirane 1010, Albania
Google maps: Further directions to the stadium can be found here.
Arena Kombetare is in Tirana's city centre, next to the Blloku entertainment district, just south of Skanderbeg Square.
The stadium is only a short walk away if you are staying in Tirana. If not, a taxi into the city is recommended; coaches can also be booked on matchdays.
When was Arena Kombetare built?
Construction of the ground began in 2016, and the stadium officially opened on 17 November 2019 with a match between Albania and France (0-2).
The Albanian Football Association (FSHF) and the Albanian government began planning for their new stadium in 2011, with the government owning a quarter of the shares and the FSHF owning 70%.
However, due to issues with original designs going over budget, plans were pushed back and delayed, and thus it took five years and two different architectural teams for work to begin.
It was then built on the same site as the Qemal Stafa Stadium, which served as Albania's main stadium for 70 years before being demolished in 2016 to make way for the Arena Kombetare.
What is Arena Kombetare’s capacity?
The Arena Kombetare has a seating capacity of 22,500, 500 more than its predecessor.
The stadium's original design called for a capacity of 33,000, but those plans never came to fruition.
Which teams play at Arena Kombetare?
As well as being home to the Albanian national team, the Arena Kombetare also hosts Dinamo Tirana and FK Partizan, who play their home games there.
All three sides were also occupants of the Qemal Stafa Stadium.
Does the Arena Kombetare host music concerts & other events?
The stadium is mostly utilised for football matches and does not usually host concerts or other events.
Does the Arena Kombetare include other activities?
There is a Museum of Albanian Football located on the first floor, and it tells the story of the stadium as part of Tirana's cultural and historical heritage.
The complete history of Albanian football is portrayed with images, video, and music in this museum, which is free to both local and foreign visitors.