Capacity: 25,750
Country: Indonesia
City: Medan
Clubs: None (Host for national and international events)
Inauguration: 15/10/2024
Construction: 09/2023 – 09/2024
Cost: IDR 587 billion ($36.25 million)
Contractor: PT Adhi Karya-PT PP-PT Penta KSO
Introduction
Stadion Utama Sumatera Utara, located in the eastern suburbs of Medan, Indonesia, is poised to become the flagship sports venue for the province of North Sumatra. As the main stadium for the XXI National Sports Week (PON XXI) in 2024, this modern, state-of-the-art facility will serve as a key venue for both regional and international sporting events. With a seating capacity of 25,750 spectators, it is set to become a symbol of modernity and pride for the region.
Construction and History
The groundbreaking ceremony for Stadion Utama Sumatera Utara took place on August 14, 2020, amid the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. The construction was part of a larger project to develop a sports complex in the eastern suburbs of Medan, strategically located just a few kilometers from the city center and near the Kuala Namu International Airport. The original plan was to complete the stadium by 2023; however, construction was delayed due to the pandemic and financial hurdles.
Despite the challenges, construction was expedited in September 2023, allowing the stadium to be completed in time for the closing ceremony of PON XXI in September 2024. The official opening, attended by Indonesian President Joko Widodo, took place on October 15, 2024, marking a major milestone for Medan and the surrounding region.
Design and Features
Designed with a modern rectangular football layout, the stadium offers a seating capacity of 25,750, including VIP seats, press seats, and accessible seating for people with disabilities. The color scheme of the stadium is dominated by green tones, symbolizing the lush landscape of Sumatra, while the itik pulang petang motif, inspired by the traditional local culture, is incorporated into the façade and seating arrangement, giving the stadium a unique identity.
The stadium’s stands are covered by a roof that shelters most of the spectators, and it is equipped with two video screens and floodlights, ensuring it is ready for both daytime and evening events. Additionally, photovoltaic panels installed on the southern side of the roof help the stadium meet modern energy sustainability standards.
Facilities and Role
Stadion Utama Sumatera Utara is part of a larger sports complex that includes various facilities to support both professional and amateur sports. These include:
- Sports Hall dedicated to volleyball
- A combat sports hall for martial arts and wrestling
- A smaller athletics stadium with an additional training track
Located in the Kemanisan area, east of Medan, this stadium will serve as the primary venue for regional and national events. The proximity to Kuala Namu International Airport ensures that the stadium is well-connected to the city and the rest of the country, making it an ideal location for large-scale events.
The stadium is set to complement Stadion Teladan, which is undergoing complete renovation and will primarily host PSMS Medan, a leading football club in the region. Together, these two stadiums will provide Medan with the infrastructure needed to host events at both the national and international levels.
Future Prospects
As a key venue for the 2024 PON and future events, Stadion Utama Sumatera Utara will play a significant role in promoting sports tourism in North Sumatra. The stadium’s modern amenities and location make it a prime candidate for hosting international football matches, athletic competitions, and concerts. Moreover, the stadium will serve as a home for various national teams and provide a training ground for local athletes.
With the development of this stadium, Medan strengthens its position as a major sports hub in Indonesia, alongside Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya. The PON XXI event will undoubtedly showcase the stadium’s capabilities and help establish it as one of the premier sports venues in the country.
Conclusion
Stadion Utama Sumatera Utara marks a new era for sports in Medan and North Sumatra, offering a world-class facility to host the most significant events in the region. From its rapid construction in the face of challenges to its role in the PON XXI, the stadium embodies the ambition and resilience of Indonesia’s sports infrastructure. With its capacity, modern facilities, and cultural significance, Stadion Utama Sumatera Utara is set to become a symbol of pride for the people of North Sumatra and a beacon for the future of sports in Indonesia.
