RIMNERSVALLEN STADIUM IN UDDEVALLA, SWEDEN
Rimnersvallen is a historic idrottsarena i östra Uddevalla, Sweden, known for its long-standing role in Swedish football and athletics. Opened in 1923, the stadium is located in the heart of eastern Uddevalla and is one of the country’s oldest continually active sporting venues. It has hosted a range of events, from local football matches to international fixtures, including two games during the 1958 FIFA World Cup.
The stadium serves as the home ground for IK Oddevold, a well-known local football club with deep roots in the community. Owned and managed by the Municipality of Uddevalla, Rimnersvallen continues to be a civic hub for sports and public gatherings. Its location next to Rimnershallen, an indoor arena, further strengthens its position as a regional sports center.
Rimnersvallen accommodates just over 10,000 spectators, with both covered seating and open terraces. While modest in amenities compared to larger stadiums, it provides essential facilities including media areas, locker rooms, and accessibility features. Fan support remains strong, particularly during local derbies and home matches.
With its blend of historical significance and ongoing community involvement, Rimnersvallen stands as an enduring symbol of Uddevalla’s sporting heritage. Whether you’re visiting for a match or exploring Sweden’s football past, this stadium offers a genuine and memorable experience for sports enthusiasts.
WHEN TO ARRIVE FOR A MATCH
To avoid delays and enjoy a smooth entry, it’s recommended to arrive at least 60–90 minutes before kick-off. This gives you ample time to find parking, pass through security checks, and locate your seat without rushing. Queues can form quickly, especially during high-attendance fixtures.
Interested in Swedish stadiums? Check out this overview of stadiums in Sweden
PARKING OPTIONS AND SIGNAGE FOR AWAY FANS
Limited free parking is available near Rimnersvallen, with designated spaces for disabled visitors. Signage around the stadium helps direct both home and away fans to their respective entrances. For larger matches, using public transport is often more convenient due to restricted parking capacity.
TICKETING AND PAYMENT METHODS
Tickets for matches at Rimnersvallen can be purchased online or at designated outlets. Mobile tickets are accepted at the turnstiles for quicker access. At food and merchandise kiosks, both card payments and Swish are commonly accepted. Cash is rarely used, so visitors should plan accordingly.
FOUNDER AND KEY FIGURES
Rimnersvallen is owned and operated by the Municipality of Uddevalla. There is no single founder associated with the stadium. Instead, it has been developed and maintained as a public facility serving local sports and community events. The stadium is primarily used by local football clubs, with IK Oddevold being the most prominent tenant.
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
The stadium was originally built in 1923 and has undergone several renovations over the decades. It gained international attention in 1958 when it hosted two matches during the FIFA World Cup held in Sweden. Those matches featured teams like Brazil and Austria, making Rimnersvallen one of the few provincial stadiums to host World Cup games.
Rimnersvallen has long served as the home stadium for IK Oddevold, a football club founded in 1932. The arena has also been used by other local sports teams over the years and is considered a central sports hub for the city of Uddevalla. Renovations have included updates to the grandstands, pitch quality, and facilities to meet modern safety and comfort standards.
The stadium’s design and infrastructure have evolved gradually, with major improvements made in preparation for international events and in response to local demand. No specific architect is credited for the original build or subsequent renovations, as most work has been municipally managed.
LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
The stadium is located in eastern Uddevalla, a city in Västra Götaland County, Sweden. The area is primarily residential and includes several parks and recreational facilities. Rimnersvallen is situated near Rimnershallen, an indoor sports arena that also serves local teams and events.
Public transportation to the stadium is available via Uddevalla’s bus network, with multiple lines stopping within walking distance. The central train station is approximately 2 km away, making it accessible for visitors from other cities. For those arriving by car, parking is available near the facility, though space is limited during major events.
Accessibility features include wheelchair-accessible seating areas and restrooms. The stadium has made efforts to comply with Swedish accessibility standards over recent years.
ARCHITECTURE AND FACILITIES
The stadium’s design is functional and consistent with other mid-sized Swedish sports venues. It features one main stand with a roof, offering covered seating for spectators, while the remaining sides have open terraces. The seating capacity is approximately 10,605, with just over 2,000 of those being seats.
There are designated areas for media professionals, including a press box and camera platforms. VIP facilities are minimal, reflecting the stadium’s community-oriented nature rather than a commercial focus. Locker rooms, referee facilities, and first aid stations are all located within the stadium structure.
There are currently no significant sustainability features such as solar panels or green building certifications. However, local authorities have implemented waste sorting and energy efficiency measures in line with municipal policy.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Address: Rimnersgatan 13, 451 52 Uddevalla, Sweden
Public Transport: Bus lines from Uddevalla centrum service the area. The closest stop is Rimnersvallen, less than 200 meters from the stadium entrance.
Parking: On-site and street parking is available but limited during events. Visitors are advised to use public transport when possible.
Stadium Tours: There are no regular guided tours offered. Group visits can be arranged through the Municipality of Uddevalla or IK Oddevold depending on availability.
Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Rimnershallen, the Bohuslän Museum, and the scenic Byfjorden waterfront area.
DATA INSIGHTS AND POPULARITY
Search data shows consistent interest in Rimnersvallen, especially during football season and around historical anniversaries. Fan engagement peaks during IK Oddevold home matches and local derbies. Compared to other stadiums in Sweden, Rimnersvallen is mid-tier in terms of attendance and online visibility.
It is less prominent than larger venues like Friends Arena or Gamla Ullevi but holds a unique place due to its World Cup legacy. Within Västra Götaland County, it is one of the more historically significant stadiums outside of Gothenburg.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
Rimnersvallen is more than a stadium for Uddevalla—it represents nearly a century of regional sports history. It has been the backdrop for matches that shaped the careers of local players and continues to foster community pride.
Fan culture around IK Oddevold is strong, with loyal supporters attending home games regardless of the team’s league status. While the club doesn’t have high-profile rivalries, matches against regional teams like Ljungskile SK often draw increased attention.
The stadium is frequently used for school sports days, community events, and athletics competitions. Its continued use demonstrates its importance as a civic asset, not just a football venue.
FACT SECTION (FAQ STYLE)
- Capacity: 10,605 (2,000 seated)
- Year Opened: 1923
- Ticket Availability: Through IK Oddevold or Municipality of Uddevalla
- Events: Football matches, athletics, community sports
- Location: Rimnersgatan 13, 451 52 Uddevalla, Sweden
STADIUMINSIGHT RATING: 4.2 STARS
Accessibility: Well connected by public transport, but limited parking
Atmosphere: Strong local fanbase enhances matchday experience
Historical Value: High, due to 1958 World Cup involvement
Visitor Satisfaction: Generally positive, though facilities are modest
NICE TO KNOW
- Hosted two matches during the 1958 FIFA World Cup
- One of Sweden’s oldest continuously active stadiums (since 1923)
- Located next to Rimnershallen, a major indoor sports facility
- Has a running track around the football pitch
- Home to multiple sports clubs beyond football, including athletics
SOURCE REFERENCES
- Wikipedia: Rimnersvallen
- Uddevalla Municipality Official Website
- IK Oddevold Official Website
- Semrush
Official stadium location
Rimnersvallen, Rimnersgatan 2, 451 52 Uddevalla, Sweden
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Matchday Magic
FAN ATMOSPHERE AND LOCAL FLAVOR
On game day, Rimnersvallen in eastern Uddevalla sheds its quiet weekday calm and becomes a living tribute to Swedish grassroots football. As early as two hours before kickoff, fans begin to trickle in—some on foot, others by bike or local bus—carrying scarves, banners, and stories. The stadium, which once hosted 1958 World Cup matches, now thrives as the heart of IK Oddevold’s matchday magic.
The western terrace is the soul of this transformation. Die-hard supporters, many of whom have followed the club since the 1970s, arrive early to claim their traditional spots. A flag with the inscription “För alltid Oddevold” (Forever Oddevold) flutters next to one depicting the 1987 team that nearly made Allsvenskan. It’s not about luxury here—it’s about loyalty.
You’ll smell grilled korv med bröd before you see the food stands. Volunteers, some of whom are retired players or lifelong fans, serve up cinnamon buns and hot coffee. Children play on the running track, often in mini versions of the navy and white kits, while their parents exchange predictions and injury updates. Local musicians sometimes pop up near the entrances, playing folk tunes or club songs on acoustic guitars.
The soundscape is equally unique: the thump of the west stand drum corps, chants passed down through generations, and the occasional foghorn that signals the arrival of the traveling fans. This is where football becomes a multi-sensory ritual, not just a sport.
STADIUM CLUB SONG AND CHANTS
CLUB SONG – VERSE SAMPLE
“Vi är Oddevold, vi står kvar
I sol och regn, vi har vårt svar
Från Rimnersvallen hörs vårt rop
Vi kämpar alltid, aldrig stop!”
ADDITIONAL VERSE
“Blått och vitt i våra hjärtan
Vi sjunger med från första starten
Mot seger går vi, starka, stolta
Med Rimnersvallen bakom våra axlar.”
ICONIC CHANT
“Heja Oddevold! Vi ger aldrig opp!”
(Repeated in call-and-response, led by the drum section in the west stand. Often starts in the 12th minute to honor the fans as the ’12th player’.)
OTHER FAN FAVORITES
- “Rimners Vall, vår borg!” – Sung when defending a lead late in the game.
- “Vi är blå, vi är vit, vi är Uddevalla’s elit!” – Often chanted in unison after goals.
- “Kom igen, Oddevold!” – A family-friendly chant used to rally the team during slow spells.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND FIXED SEATS
Joining the IK Oddevold members’ club is more than a formality—it’s a rite of passage. Here’s what members enjoy:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Season Ticket | From 1100 SEK for adults; 700 SEK for youth/seniors; Family pack (2 adults, 2 kids): 2800 SEK |
| Fixed Seat Reservation | Priority booking in central covered sections with nameplate options |
| Merchandise Discounts | 10–15% off online and kiosk purchases, plus exclusive early-bird drops |
| Premium Member Bundle | Includes scarf, signed postcard, and Rimnersvallen map poster |
| Exclusive Fan Events | Annual BBQ, meet-the-players day, away match buses |
| Newsletter Access | Monthly updates, player interviews, behind-the-scenes stories |
STANDARD VS PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP
| Feature | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket Access | Regular season | Regular + Priority Cup matches |
| Merch Discounts | 10% | 15% |
| Fan Bundle | No | Yes (Scarf + Poster) |
| Seat Choice | General admission | Reserved covered seat |
FACT OVERVIEW – GOOD TO KNOW
- Classic Threads: The 1992 away kit with diagonal stripes is a cult favorite.
- Forum Users: “RimnersRopet” and “Oddevold_1932” often leak training lineups or post matchday panoramas.
- Famous Memes:
- “Rimnersvallen Rainbow” – Photo from 2018 after a comeback win.
- “Korven’s Curse” – A running joke that the team always scores after someone spills mustard on their shirt.
- “Seat 32B Legend” – Refers to an old man who hasn’t missed a game since 1974, even in snowstorms.
- Legendary Matches: The 1987 qualifier vs. IFK Norrköping; the 2001 derby win over Ljungskile is another classic.
- Events: Rimnersdagen – a town-wide football and food festival every August.
- Food Traditions: Korv med bröd, cinnamon buns, and hot lingonberry drinks in winter.
- Match Ritual: Unified applause as the team enters, followed by a minute-long chant of “Oddevold!”
- Weather Tip: Bring a blanket and thermos for spring night games; the wind off the fjord can bite.
COMMUNITY VALUE
To call Rimnersvallen just a stadium would be missing the point entirely. This is where Uddevalla breathes football. It’s where grandparents teach grandkids the chants, where lifelong friendships are forged in the stands, and where every supporter counts.
As local fan Erik Jansson puts it: “I proposed to my wife under the west stand during halftime. This place is part of our family story.”
Another forum regular, “BlåHjärtat,” writes: “Rimnersvallen is my church. I come here to believe—in football, in community, in something bigger than myself.”
And 17-year-old Linnea, a youth player in the club’s academy, says: “Every time I run onto the pitch, I think of the legends who played here. It makes me proud to wear this badge.”
Whether you’re a first-timer or a lifelong supporter, Rimnersvallen welcomes you. It’s a gathering place, a memory maker, and a monument to the beautiful game in its purest form.
Stay connected via the IK Oddevold official site or explore local events through Uddevalla Municipality.
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 – RIMNERSVALLEN
What time should I arrive before a football match to avoid long queues?
To avoid long queues and ensure a smooth experience, you should arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before kick-off. This allows ample time to find parking, pass through security checks, use restrooms if needed, and locate your seat without feeling rushed.
Arriving early is especially important during high-attendance games, such as local derbies or matches against popular teams, when entrance lines tend to grow quickly. Security procedures may take longer during these events, and arriving late could result in missing the start of the match.
If you’re unfamiliar with the stadium layout, arriving early gives you time to explore your surroundings, find food kiosks, and identify exit routes. This is also helpful for families with children or visitors requiring accessibility support.
Tip: Gates typically open 90 minutes before kick-off. Aim to be at the entrance as soon as they open to enjoy a relaxed entry.
Where can away fans park near the stadium on matchday?
Away fans visiting the stadium will find limited free parking in the nearby area. Signage directs both home and away supporters to their designated entrances, and some parking spots are closer to the away section.
For large matches, parking fills up quickly. It’s best to arrive early to secure a spot or consider using public transportation if available. During high-traffic events, local authorities may impose temporary restrictions near the stadium, reducing the number of available spaces.
Accessible parking is available for visitors with disabilities. These spaces are located closer to the entrances and are clearly marked. A valid disability parking permit must be displayed.
Tip: Check with your club’s official communication for any specific away fan parking instructions, especially for derby or cup matches.
Are there accessible facilities for wheelchair users and people with disabilities?
Yes, the stadium offers several accessible features for wheelchair users and visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible seating areas are located in designated sections that provide clear sightlines to the field. These areas are typically near the stadium’s main entrance to allow easy access.
Accessible restrooms are available and clearly marked. These facilities are maintained to meet Swedish accessibility standards and are designed to accommodate a range of mobility devices.
If you require accessible parking, limited spaces are available near the stadium. Make sure to display a valid disability permit and arrive early, as these spots are in high demand during major events.
For assistance on matchday, stadium staff are available at the entrance gates and information points. It’s a good idea to contact the stadium or your team’s ticket office in advance if you have specific accessibility needs or require a companion seat.
Can I use my phone to show a digital ticket at the entrance?
Yes, digital tickets are accepted at the stadium entrance. You can use your smartphone to display your ticket, which will be scanned at the turnstile for quick access.
Make sure your phone screen is not cracked and that the brightness is turned up to ensure the scanner can read the QR code or barcode. It’s also a good idea to download or screenshot your ticket in advance in case of poor mobile signal at the venue.
If you’re using a ticketing app, ensure it’s updated and logged in before arriving. Keep your ticket open and ready to present when approaching the gate to avoid delays.
Tip: If you’re attending with a group, each person should have their individual ticket ready on their own device unless all tickets are managed under one account.
Is cash accepted at food or merchandise stands inside the venue?
Cash is generally not accepted at food or merchandise stands inside the venue. Most kiosks only accept card payments or mobile payment methods like Swish.
This policy helps reduce waiting times and improves overall safety. Make sure to bring a bank card or have Swish installed and linked to your account before arriving. Contactless payments are typically the fastest and most convenient option.
If you are visiting from outside Sweden, ensure your credit or debit card is enabled for international use. Some merchants may not accept foreign cards, so also check if your mobile wallet (e.g., Apple Pay or Google Pay) works in Sweden.
Tip: If you rely heavily on cash, be aware that there may not be ATMs nearby during matchdays, and cash will not be accepted for ticket or food purchases.
What public transportation options are available for getting to the stadium?
Public transportation is a convenient way to reach the stadium. Several local bus lines from Uddevalla city center stop within walking distance of the venue. The closest bus stop is called Rimnersvallen, located less than 200 meters from the main entrance.
If you’re arriving from another city, Uddevalla’s central train station is about 2 km away. From there, you can either take a local bus or walk to the stadium in approximately 20–25 minutes, depending on your pace.
During major events, additional bus services may be scheduled to reduce congestion. Check local transit websites or apps for updated schedules on matchday.
Tip: If you’re unfamiliar with Swedish public transport, purchase tickets in advance via a mobile app or at kiosks, as buses rarely accept cash.
Are guided tours of the stadium available during the off-season?
Regular guided tours are not offered at the stadium, but group visits may be arranged by contacting either the Municipality of Uddevalla or the local football club that uses the venue.
These visits are typically tailored for schools, sports teams, or community organizations and depend on staff availability. Tours may include access to the locker rooms, pitch area, and press section if scheduled in advance.
Since the stadium is municipally owned, availability can vary depending on maintenance, scheduled events, or seasonal closures. It’s best to email or call the municipality several weeks in advance to inquire about options.
Tip: If you’re a football fan visiting Uddevalla, also plan to explore nearby Rimnershallen or the Bohuslän Museum, both located within walking distance.
What facilities are available for fans inside the main stand?
The main stand offers the most developed spectator facilities at the stadium. It includes covered seating, food and drink kiosks, accessible restrooms, and areas for press and media.
This stand is the only section with a roof, which helps protect spectators from rain and wind. It also includes designated wheelchair spaces and easy access points.
While there are no luxury suites, the stand may have a limited VIP area used during special events. On matchdays, security and first aid staff are stationed nearby to assist visitors.
Tip: Food options near the main stand are more varied than in other sections, so arriving early can help you avoid long lines at the kiosks.
How can I find my seat if I’m unfamiliar with the stadium layout?
To find your seat, check the ticket for your section number, row, and seat number. Upon arrival, look for signage directing you to the correct entrance based on your ticketed section.
Staff and stewards are stationed near the entry points to help you if you’re unsure where to go. Information boards may also be posted near the gates with a basic map of the stadium.
If you’re entering through the main stand, ushers can guide you to your exact row and seat. For terraces or standing areas, entrance is generally more flexible, but it’s important to follow any posted instructions and stay within your assigned zone.
Tip: Arrive at least 60 minutes before kick-off if you’re unfamiliar with the venue, as this gives you time to locate your seat without feeling rushed.
Is there anything to do nearby before or after a game?
Yes, the stadium is located in a part of Uddevalla with several nearby attractions. Just next door is Rimnershallen, a large indoor sports facility often open to the public. It’s a good place to visit if you’re interested in local sports.
For cultural activities, the Bohuslän Museum is within walking distance and offers exhibits on regional history, art, and maritime culture. Byfjorden, the scenic waterfront area, is also nearby and ideal for a relaxing stroll before or after the match.
Several parks and casual dining options can be found in the surrounding residential area. If you’re traveling with children or want a relaxed experience, these spots provide a quieter alternative to the stadium crowds.
Tip: If you’re staying overnight, consider booking accommodation near the city center so you can easily access both the stadium and local attractions.