The Tofig Bahramov Republican Stadium, one of the best-known sporting venues in Azerbaijan, is celebrating its 75th anniversary today.
As reported by İdman.Biz, the arena, located in Baku, officially opened on September 16, 1951.
Construction of the stadium began in 1939 but was interrupted by World War II. Work resumed after the war, and the venue was eventually completed and opened 12 years after construction had started.
Since 1993, the stadium has carried the name of Tofig Bahramov, the world-famous Azerbaijani football referee who became internationally renowned for his role as a linesman in the 1966 FIFA World Cup final between England and West Germany at Wembley.
The arena underwent major reconstruction in 2011-2012 and reopened on August 16, 2012. Following the renovation, its capacity was increased to 31,200 spectators.
Over the past 75 years, the Tofig Bahramov Republican Stadium has staged numerous memorable matches involving the Azerbaijan national team and the country's clubs in domestic and international competitions.
The venue remains an important part of Azerbaijani football today, with Qarabag also using the stadium for a number of their home matches.
The stadium complex covers a total area of 20 hectares. The main football pitch is surrounded by an eight-lane, 400-metre athletics track.
