PLATINUMCARS ARENA – IFK NORRKÖPING’S HISTORIC HOME
Located in the heart of Norrköping, Sweden, PlatinumCars Arena is a central hub for football and local culture. Formerly known as Nya Parken, this historic stadium serves as the proud home of IFK Norrköping and has played a significant role in Swedish football since its original construction in 1903.
Over the decades, the arena has evolved into a modern sports venue through extensive renovations, most notably in 2009. The stadium offers an intimate matchday atmosphere thanks to its close fan proximity to the pitch, making it a favorite among supporters and visiting teams alike. It features four covered stands, VIP lounges, media areas, and accessibility services to accommodate all guests.
Beyond football, PlatinumCars Arena contributes to the broader community through concerts, youth events, and public gatherings, reinforcing its cultural significance in the Östergötland region. The venue is easily accessible by tram and bus, with Norrköping Central Station just 1.5 km away, ensuring convenience for both local fans and traveling visitors.
Since 2016, the stadium has carried its current name through a naming rights deal with PlatinumCars. Despite its smaller size compared to national venues, it remains one of Sweden’s most searched and visited stadiums during the Allsvenskan season. The deep connection between IFK Norrköping and the city makes every match a celebration of community spirit and sporting pride.
Disclaimer
PARKERING OCH BETALNING VID PLATINUMCARS ARENA
Parkering finns i begränsad omfattning nära arenan, framför allt längs Ektorpsgatan och i anslutning till Himmelstalundsområdet. På matchdagar är det ofta fullt, så parkering längre bort med promenad rekommenderas. De flesta parkeringszoner kräver betalning via app, sms eller parkeringsautomat.
Interessert i svenske stadioner? Se denne oversikt over stadioner i Sverige.
VILKA INGÅNGAR PASSAR FÖR OLIKA SEKTIONER?
Ingångarna till PlatinumCars Arena är markerade efter sektion och tydligt skyltade. Sektion A och B når du enklast via huvudentrén på Ektorpsgatan. För sektionerna C till E används ingångar på motsatt sida av arenan. Det är bra att kontrollera biljetten i förväg för att undvika fördröjningar vid insläpp.
KORT, SWISH ELLER KONTANT – HUR BETALAR MAN?
På PlatinumCars Arena är det kontantfritt som gäller. Mat och dryck i kioskerna kan betalas med kort eller Swish. Detta gäller även i souvenirbutiken. Kontanter accepteras inte, så det är viktigt att ha digitala betalmetoder redo inför evenemanget.
FOUNDER AND KEY FIGURES
PlatinumCars Arena is owned by IFK Norrköping TMA AB, a company entirely owned by the football club IFK Norrköping. The club manages and maintains the stadium, playing a central role in its modernization. The arena has no single founder, as it gradually transitioned from a municipal facility to a club-controlled asset over time.
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
Built in 1903 and originally called “Norrköpings Idrottspark,” the stadium has undergone several renovations. The most significant occurred in 2009, modernizing the venue and renaming it Nya Parken. In 2016, it became PlatinumCars Arena through a sponsorship agreement.
It has long served as the home of IFK Norrköping and has hosted matches for the Swedish national team, including during the 1992 UEFA European Championship. The arena also accommodates concerts and community events. The 2009 redesign by Bergfjord & Ivarsson Arkitektkontor introduced new stands, upgraded facilities, and a modern exterior. Notable matches include title-deciders in IFK Norrköping’s 2015 championship-winning season.
LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
Situated in the Östermalm district of Norrköping, PlatinumCars Arena is surrounded by residential areas and green spaces, just a short walk from the city centre. The stadium is well-served by public transport, with tram lines and buses stopping nearby. Norrköping Central Station is located approximately 1.5 km away, making travel easy for both local and visiting fans.
The stadium is accessible for individuals with disabilities, offering designated seating, ramps, and assistance services during events.
ARCHITECTURE AND FACILITIES
Following its 2009 renovation, PlatinumCars Arena became a fully modern, all-seater stadium. The design focuses on enhancing the spectator experience with stands close to the pitch and full roof coverage for weather protection. The main stand houses VIP lounges and executive boxes, while media professionals benefit from press rooms and commentary areas.
The stadium meets UEFA standards for international play. Though lacking advanced sustainability systems, it includes energy-efficient upgrades such as LED lighting and improved insulation.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Address: Ektorpsgatan 1, 602 37 Norrköping, Sweden
Transport and Parking: Easily reached via tram lines 2 and 3. Matchday parking is limited; using park-and-ride facilities is advised for large events.
Stadium Tours: Guided tours are occasionally arranged by IFK Norrköping, typically during off-season or upon group request.
Fan Shop: The club store inside the stadium sells official merchandise and matchday gear.
Nearby Attractions: Attractions such as the Museum of Work and the Industrial Landscape are within walking distance of the stadium.
DATA INSIGHTS AND POPULARITY
PlatinumCars Arena ranks highly among Swedish stadiums for search interest, particularly during the Allsvenskan season. SEMrush data shows spikes in queries for “IFK Norrköping stadion” during summer and transfer periods.
Strong fan engagement is reflected in above-average attendance figures and social media metrics. Compared to larger venues like Friends Arena or Gamla Ullevi, PlatinumCars Arena offers a more personal, immersive fan experience.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
The stadium is a cultural touchstone in Norrköping. Matchdays unite the community, with local rivalries adding passion and tradition to the experience. IFK Norrköping’s deep roots in the city amplify the emotional connection fans have with the venue.
Beyond football, PlatinumCars Arena hosts youth tournaments, charity games, and civic events, reinforcing its role as a community center and symbol of local pride.
FACT SECTION
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 17,234 |
| Year Opened | 1903 |
| Ticket Availability | Available via IFK Norrköping’s official website and authorized resellers |
| Events | Allsvenskan matches, concerts, community events |
| Location | Norrköping, Sweden |
STADIUMINSIGHT RATING: 4.5 STARS
PlatinumCars Arena earns praise for its central location, rich history, and vibrant matchday experience. While smaller than some modern stadiums and lacking advanced sustainability features, its intimacy and strong community ties make it a highly rated venue. Improvements in parking and environmental initiatives could further enhance the visitor experience.
NICE TO KNOW
- The stadium hosted three Euro 1992 matches.
- A hybrid grass pitch was installed in 2013.
- The current name was introduced via a 2016 naming rights deal.
- Record attendance was over 32,000 in 1956.
- One of Sweden’s first stadiums with under-soil heating.
SOURCE REFERENCES
- Wikipedia – PlatinumCars Arena
- Official IFK Norrköping Website
- SEMrush
- Norrköping Municipality
Official stadium location
PlatinumCars Arena, Ektorpsgatan 1, 602 37 Norrköping, Sweden
Let's test your general knowledge!
Fan Rituals
STADIUM ATMOSPHERE AND LOCAL TRADITIONS
On matchdays, PlatinumCars Arena transforms into the beating heart of Norrköping. From the early hours of the afternoon, the city buzzes with energy. Trams rumble toward Ektorpsgatan, packed with fans draped in blue and white. Local cafés like Broadway Konditori fill with pre-match chatter and predictions, while the scent of grilled korv and fresh cinnamon buns drifts from street vendors on Södra Promenaden.
The pilgrimage to the stadium is a ritual in itself. Fans from all over Östergötland and beyond pour in, many stopping at the club shop to pick up the latest scarf or retro jersey. By kickoff, nearly every seat is filled, but the epicenter of noise and passion is always Curva Nordahl. Named after the legendary Gunnar Nordahl, it’s more than a supporter section—it’s a way of life.
Flags the size of buses ripple in the wind. Smoke flares paint the sky blue. Every song, every clap, every tifo is coordinated to perfection by supporter groups like Peking Fanz and Snoka Tifo. The atmosphere is goosebump-inducing, whether you’re a first-timer or a 30-year member.
The closeness of the stands to the pitch gives fans a tangible influence on the game. Players often speak of the “12th man” effect, and it’s no exaggeration. PlatinumCars Arena may seat just under 18,000, but the decibel level rivals much larger stadiums.
STADIUM CLUB SONG AND CHANTS
CLUB ANTHEM – “SNART SKINER POSEIDON” (IFK VERSION)
Adopted and reworded by IFK Norrköping fans, this anthem is sung just before kickoff, creating a spine-tingling moment of unity:
“Och när vi marscherar genom staden
I vitt och blått vi står
Vi sjunger för vår IFK
Som vi alltid håller på!”
“Och Poseidon skiner över oss
När vi går mot ännu ett mål
Vi tror på våra hjältar
I Peking – vår stolta stad och klubb!”
ICONIC CHANT – “VI ÄR NORRKÖPING”
- Chanted in unison by Curva Nordahl
- Backed by synchronized drumming and coordinated jumping
- Chant peaks during high-pressure moments or after a goal
Lyrics:
“Vi är Norrköping! Vi är Norrköping!
Ingen kan slå oss – vi är IFK!”
This chant has become so iconic that even rival fans acknowledge its power during away matches.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND FIXED SEATS
Joining the IFK Norrköping membership family brings more than just tickets—it’s access to a legacy.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Season Ticket – Standard | Adult: 2,995 SEK, Youth: 1,495 SEK – Includes all home games and a fixed seat in the East Stand |
| Season Ticket – Premium | From 4,495 SEK – Access to VIP lounge, padded seats, and matchday catering |
| Merchandise Bundle | Exclusive scarf, pin, and retro jersey for early-bird members |
| Pre-sale Access | 48-hour priority for high-demand games and derbies |
| Fan Events | Stadium tours, Q&A with players, and training ground access |
Membership Comparison
| Feature | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Access to all home games | ✔ | ✔ |
| VIP Lounge | ✖ | ✔ |
| Fixed Seat | ✔ | ✔ (Best seats) |
| Merch Discount | 10% | 15% |
FACT OVERVIEW – GOOD TO KNOW
- Top Hashtags: #CurvaNordahl, #IFKFamily, #SnokaTillJagDör
- Popular Forum Users: “BlåvitLegend,” “SnokaSyd,” “PekingPappa” (known for nostalgic photo threads)
- Fan Memes:
- The “Totte Tåget” meme featuring striker Christoffer Nyman as a steam engine
- “VAR är borta igen” – a sarcastic reference to controversial officiating
- “Peking regnar aldrig” – a play on the club’s resilience
- Iconic Matches: 2015 title win vs Malmö FF, 3–1 comeback vs AIK in 2019, 5–0 derby victory over Örebro in 2022
- Family Sections: East Stand, with mascots, face painting, and giveaways every match
- Tifo Culture: Giant banners, LED light shows, and themed choreography marking anniversaries and rivalries
- Post-Match Ritual: Players walk to Curva Nordahl to sing the anthem and thank fans
COMMUNITY VALUE
PlatinumCars Arena is more than a stadium—it’s a second home for the people of Norrköping. Generations of families have stood side by side here, from grandfathers who watched Nordahl to kids wearing their first IFK shirt. It’s where friendships form in line for coffee, old classmates reunite in the stands, and strangers become family by kickoff.
Supporter clubs organize charity drives, local cleanups, and free youth matchday tickets. The sense of belonging is unmatched.
“My daughter’s first word was ‘IFK.’ That’s how deep it runs in our family.” – Johan, member since 1994
“I met my best friend in Curva Nordahl in 2008. We’ve never missed a match together since.” – Elin, Peking Fanz
“This club gave me a community when I moved to Sweden. Now it’s my home.” – Ahmed, season ticket holder
Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a new fan, there’s a place for you here. For updates on fixtures, events, and community outreach, visit the official IFK Norrköping channels.
For more in‑depth information on this topic, see the resources linked below, which provide additional insights and explanations.
Dictionary – Stats & Records
Dictionary – Stadiums & Arenas
Dictionary – Sports & Leagues
Dictionary – Fans, Tickets & Matchday
Dictionary – Equipment & Gear
FAQ – PLATINUMCARS ARENA
Where can I park when visiting PlatinumCars Arena, and how do I pay for parking?
Parking near PlatinumCars Arena is limited, especially on matchdays. The closest areas are along Ektorpsgatan and near the Himmelstalund area. These spots tend to fill quickly, so it’s often better to park further away and walk to the stadium. On high-attendance days, consider using park-and-ride lots or public transport instead.
Most parking zones around the area are paid. You can pay using your mobile phone via a parking app (like EasyPark or Parkster), SMS, or nearby parking machines. Instructions are usually available in Swedish and English on the machines or signs posted nearby.
– Payment methods: Mobile app, SMS, or credit/debit card at machines
– Avoid bringing cash, as most systems are digital
– Check signs for time limits and zones
A good tip is to download a parking app in advance and register your payment details before arriving. This helps avoid delays when you’re trying to find a spot quickly close to kickoff.
Which stadium entrance should I use for my seating section?
The entrances at the stadium are clearly marked and correspond to specific seating sections. To avoid confusion or long wait times, it’s important to check your ticket beforehand and head to the correct gate.
– Sections A and B are best accessed through the main entrance located on Ektorpsgatan.
– Sections C, D, and E are on the opposite side of the stadium and have separate entry points.
Each entrance is labeled with signage that matches the ticket section codes, making it easier to navigate. Staff are also on hand to assist if you’re unsure.
If you’re attending with someone who has mobility needs, use the designated accessible entrances, which are also clearly marked and located near ramps or elevators.
Arrive early to get through security and find your seat without rushing. Gates usually open well before kickoff or event start times.
Can I pay with cash inside the stadium for food, drinks, or souvenirs?
No, the stadium is completely cash-free. Inside, all purchases at kiosks, food stands, and the official fan shop must be made using digital payment methods.
Visitors can pay with credit or debit cards such as Visa or Mastercard. Swish, a popular mobile payment service in Sweden, is also accepted at most locations within the venue.
– Accepted payment methods: Card and Swish
– No cash accepted at any location
– Applies to food, drinks, and merchandise
Before you attend an event, make sure your card or Swish app is working and topped up if needed. International visitors should also ensure their cards are authorized for international or contactless purchases.
If you don’t have a Swedish mobile number for Swish, a card is the best option. There are no ATMs at the stadium, so plan accordingly.
Is the stadium accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the stadium is designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. There are designated accessible seating areas that provide good views of the field and are located close to ramps and elevators. These seats are reserved in advance and can be booked through the club’s ticket service or by contacting the stadium directly.
Accessible entrances are clearly marked and typically located near the main gates. Ramps and elevators make it easy to move between levels. Assistance services, including staff to help with directions or seating, are also available during events.
– Designated seating for wheelchair users and companions
– Accessible toilets available throughout the venue
– Entry points with ramps and elevators
If you’re attending with a service animal or need extra assistance, it’s a good idea to notify the stadium in advance. This will ensure proper arrangements are in place to make your visit smooth and comfortable.
What public transportation options are available for reaching the stadium?
The stadium is well-connected by Norrköping’s public transportation system. Tram lines 2 and 3 stop just a short walk from the arena, making them the most convenient way to arrive on event days. Buses also run nearby and connect to various parts of the city.
If you’re arriving from outside the city, Norrköping Central Station is approximately 1.5 kilometers from the stadium. From there, you can walk or take a tram directly to the venue.
– Closest tram lines: 2 and 3
– Bus stops within walking distance
– 15–20 minute walk from Central Station
Make sure to check the local transit app or website for updated schedules, especially during weekends or holidays. Trams and buses often run on extended timetables during major events.
Are there stadium tours, and how can I book one?
Yes, guided tours of the stadium are available but are typically offered during the off-season or upon group request. These tours are organized by IFK Norrköping and provide a behind-the-scenes look at areas such as the locker rooms, player tunnel, and media facilities.
To book a tour, you can contact IFK Norrköping through their official website or customer service. Group bookings, such as for schools or clubs, are usually given priority, but individual bookings may also be arranged depending on availability.
– Tours typically run during the off-season
– Booking required in advance
– Contact via IFK Norrköping’s official website
Guided tours are a great way to learn about the stadium’s history and see parts of the venue not open to the public on matchdays. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the tours involve walking and stairs.
What food and drink options are available inside the venue?
Inside the venue, there are several kiosks and food stands offering a range of snacks, hot meals, and beverages. Typical items include hot dogs, burgers, fries, soft drinks, and coffee. Local specialties or seasonal items may also be available during specific events.
All food outlets are cash-free. Payment is accepted via card or Swish only. Lines can be long during peak times, so visiting the kiosks before the event starts or during halftime is recommended.
– Food: Hot dogs, burgers, fries, candy, snacks
– Drinks: Soda, water, coffee; beer in designated areas
– Payment: Card or Swish only
Some events may feature food trucks or special menus depending on the occasion. Vegetarian options are generally available, but it’s best to ask staff at the kiosk if you have dietary restrictions.
Is the stadium suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the stadium is family-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages. The seating layout provides good visibility, and the environment is generally safe and well-monitored. Families often sit together in general admission areas or in sections designated for a calmer atmosphere.
Restrooms are located throughout the venue, and baby-changing facilities are available in select areas. Food options include kid-friendly items like fries and soft drinks. Strollers are typically not allowed into the stands but can be left at designated storage points near entrances.
– Family seating areas: Available for select matches
– Restrooms with baby-changing stations
– Staff assistance available for families
For the best experience, arrive early and check your ticket section to find the most convenient entrance. Noise-canceling headphones are helpful for younger children sensitive to loud sounds.
How early should I arrive before an event starts?
It’s best to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before the scheduled start time of any event. This gives you plenty of time to find parking, go through security, locate your entrance, and reach your seat without rushing.
On matchdays or during concerts, gates usually open 1.5 to 2 hours ahead of time. Arriving early also allows you to visit the fan shop, get food or drinks, and enjoy the pre-event atmosphere.
– Recommended arrival: 60–90 minutes early
– Gates open 1.5–2 hours before event
– Early arrival helps avoid long lines
For visitors using mobility aids or who need extra assistance, arriving early ensures more time to navigate the facilities and access appropriate seating. Staff are available to help if needed.
Can I bring a wheelchair or mobility aid into the stadium?
Yes, wheelchairs and mobility aids are permitted, and the stadium is equipped to accommodate guests who use them. There are designated wheelchair-accessible seating areas located throughout the venue that offer clear sightlines and nearby companion seating.
Accessible entry points are marked and include ramps or elevators, making it easier to enter and move through the stadium. Staff are available to help you find your seat or assist with directions.
– Wheelchair access: Designated seating with companion spots
– Entry: Ramps and elevators at key gates
– Assistance: Available upon request
If you plan to bring a mobility aid, it’s best to notify the stadium or ticket provider in advance. This ensures your needs are recorded and arrangements are made for your comfort and safety.
