Ever wondered about the story behind this stadium, the Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion? It is more than just a sports venue. It is a place with history. The Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion stands as a testament to Suriname’s sporting spirit.
Originally known as Flora Stadion, the Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion was opened on December 24, 1958. Later it was renamed to honor Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed. He was a Surinamese politician and forestry scientist.
The Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion is located in Paramaribo. You will find it in the Flora neighborhood. It is on the west end of the Jaggernath Lachmonstraat near the National Indoor Stadium.
The Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion is home to several teams. These include S.V. Leo Victor, Sportvereniging Nationaal Leger and S.V. Robinhood. It also hosts the Suriname national football team. The stadium has a capacity of 3,500. The surface is artificial turf.
In May 2018, the Surinamese FA signed a contract for the renovation of the Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion. This renovation was to ensure it could serve as a backup for international matches. This was in case the André Kamperveen stadium failed to meet FIFA and CONCACAF standards. FIFA funded the renovation, which cost an estimated USD 1,048,000.
Beyond sports, the Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion has hosted several concerts. Kassav’ performed here on August 25, 2007 during their Kassav’ Carnaval Tour. Gentleman brought his Another Intensity Tour on August 15, 2009. Atif Aslam’s Impact Tour graced the stadium on September 3, 2011.
Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed made significant contributions to Suriname. He served as Minister of Development. He initiated Operation Grasshopper to map natural resources. Flora Stadion was renamed Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed Stadion in his honor.
So, as you stand here at the Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion remember its history. Think about the football matches, the concerts, and the man it honors. The Dr. Ir. F. Essed Stadion represents sports, culture, and Surinamese identity.