Hiratsuka Stadium or Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka as it is currently known as for reasons of sponsorship, is the current home of J.League side Shonan Bellmare. Capable of seating 18,500, the multi-purpose ground first opened in 1987.
Shonan Bellmare Stadium Guide
Stadium Facts
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Team: | Shonan Bellmare |
| Opened: | 1987 |
| Capacity: | 18,500 |
| Address: | Hiratsuka |
Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka History
Stadium Hiratsuka first opened in 1987 however by the time the Inaugural J-League season came around in 1993 the facilities were already deemed inadequate. Designed as a multi-purpose sports stadium, the pitch is surrounded by an eight lane athletics track, and it required some renovation work in February 1994 in order to make it capable of hosting football matches.
As one of the founding members of the J. League First Division, Shonan Bellmare got off to a lively start, and had their most successful period within the first five seasons until they were relegated in 1999. Winners of the Emperor’s Cup in 1994, Shonan even won the Asian Cup Winners Cup the following season after defeating Yokohama Flugels in the semis, and Al Talaba in the final.
Although not selected as one of Japan’s ten stadiums for the 2002 World Cup, Stadium Hiratsuka was used by the Nigerian National team as a training pitch, and they even played the Yokohama F. Marinos as a pre-tournament warm up match. Three Shonan Bellmare players represented Japan at the world cup, as well as Nakata who had played the season but had recently signed for AC Perugia.
In 2012 local car dealer BMW acquired the naming rights giving the stadium its current name of “Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka”. The stadium was expanded in 2014 which increased the capacity from 15,100 to 18,500.
How to get to Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka
Where is Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who plays at Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka?
Japanese side Shonan Bellmare play their home matches at Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka.
What is the capacity of Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka?
As of 2024 Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka has an official seating capacity of 18,500 for Football matches.
When was Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka opened?
Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka officially opened in 1987 and is home to Shonan Bellmare
Are there any Covid restrictions at the stadium?
Covid Restrictions may be in place when you visit Shonan BMW Stadium Hiratsuka in 2024. Please visit the official website of Shonan Bellmare for full information on changes due to the Coronavirus.
