Estadio Nuevo Colombino - Recreativo Stadium Guide

Estadio Nuevo Colombino was constructed in 2001 to replace Recreativo de Huelva’s former ground Estadio Colombino. Whilst the two stadiums share the same name, they were both built in two entirely different locations, although the new one is clearly the spiritual successor to the old one.

Constructed at a cost of €14 million euros, the new stadium was designed by local architect Joaquín Aramburu to be the centrepiece of a revitalised waterfront area known as Barriada de Pescadería or “Neighbourhood of fish” in English. Designed to seat 21,670 spectators, the former 1957 built ground was demolished with a capacity of just 13,000, and was unfortunately beginning to show its age.

The new stadium was inaugurated with no less than two friendly matches, in preparation for the first competitive fixture which was scheduled for the 6th January 2002.

The first game took place on 8th November between Recreativo Huelva and English visitors Newcastle United (3-0), and the second was contested a few days later between the Spanish National Team and Mexico a few days later. This fixture attracted a sell-out crowd of 21,000 and to this day still holds the record for attendance.

As Recreativo de Huelva have yet to qualify for European football since relocating to the new Colombino, the highest level of football played at the stadium has clearly been the International friendlies. Estadio Nuevo Colombino has hosted preseason friendly matches featuring Lyon, Besiktas, and FC Porto as part of the 2009 Peace Cup.

Estadio Nuevo Colombino is comprised of four stands: North, East, South and West.

Click the thumbnails above to enlarge an image of each stand and to read a more detailed description of each part of the Stadium.