Think of steam locomotives. They are powerful machines. This reflects the spirit of Lokomotiv. We are standing before a symbol of Moscow’s football pride. This is more than just a stadium. It is the home of FC Lokomotiv Moscow.
Lokomotiv is a club with a rich history. It began its journey on July 23 1922. Back then, it was known as Kazanka. The team played its first match that very day. They faced the Izmailovo sports club.
The club evolved. In 1923, the October Revolution Club also formed. These clubs were Lokomotiv’s predecessors. The name Lokomotiv came about in 1936. The club became a major force in Soviet football.
In 1936, Lokomotiv won their first USSR Cup. They repeated this feat in 1957. In 1959, they almost became champions. However, they won silver medals instead.
Lokomotiv continued to be a leading club. This was especially true in the Russian Premier League. They clinched the title three times. This happened in 2002, 2004, and 2017/18. They have also secured the Russian Cup eight times. They won in seasons 1995/96, 1996/97, 1999/00, 2000/01, 2006/07, 2014/2015, 2016/17, and 2018/19.
The team earned silver medals six times. They finished third five times. Lokomotiv has won the Super Cup three times. They won in 2003, 2005, and 2019. Their best international achievement was reaching the semi-final. This was in the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in 1997/98 and 1998/99.
The RZD Arena is Lokomotiv’s home. It is in Moscow’s eastern district of Cherkizovo. The stadium was rebuilt and opened in 2002. The first game was Lokomotiv against Uralan. The stadium seats 27084 people. It was the first in Russia designed for association football. The stadium grounds include football pitches. There is also a leisure center, an Ice Arena, and the Club Museum.
The new Lokomotiv Stadion replaced an older ground. The old ground dated back to 1935. Construction began in 2000. Mosprojekt 4 designed it. This architecture practice is known for sports venues. The inauguration took place in July 2002. Lokomotiv Moscow calls this place home. The Russian national team also plays here sometimes.
The stands have two tiers. The lower tier has 20 rows. The upper tier has 17 rows. Business skyboxes are between them. Four pylons support the roof. They stand tall at 55 meters. They are at each corner.
Lokomotiv is more than just a football club. It is a symbol of Moscow. It represents history, passion, and the drive for victory. Take a moment to appreciate the achievements. Feel the energy that fills this place. Lokomotiv continues to inspire.