Sportpark Nord

On a former landfill site, a sporting giant arose. Here at Sportpark Nord, the largest sports facility in Bonn, the echoes of cheering crowds and splashing swimmers mingle. Sportpark Nord opened in 1970. It replaced Bonn’s sports facilities in Gronau. The federal government acquired Gronau in 1966 to construct new parliament buildings. The government used the 90 million DM from the sale to fund Sportpark Nord’s construction. The park spans over 160,000 square meters. It is a hub for both local clubs and national training centers. The main building houses a triple gymnasium, changing rooms, technical rooms, a restaurant, a fitness area, and a swimming pool operated by Schwimm- und Sportfreunde Bonn (SSB) in the basement. Schools also utilize Sportpark Nord’s facilities for sports and swimming lessons. The architects van Dorp and Darius designed the park with support from the Institute for Sports Facility Construction in Cologne-Müngersdorf. A highlight of Sportpark Nord is its innovative indoor pool. It was the first to be built underneath a sports hall. Sportpark Nord is also home to the Olympic Modern Pentathlon Center. The German Championships were held here in 1997. The stadium itself boasts a natural grass field and a blue synthetic track, renovated in 2022. The grandstand seats thousands of spectators, both covered and uncovered. This stadium has hosted memorable sporting moments. The Japanese national football team used it as their training ground during the 2006 World Cup. Even FC Bayern Munich trained here in 2004 and 2005, even playing a friendly match against the local Bonner SC. Sportpark Nord isn’t just about professional sports. It is integrated into the community, providing space for school activities and local clubs. The park continues to evolve. Plans are underway for a temporary swimming pool to serve as a replacement during renovations of the Frankenbad and Sportpark Nord’s pool. This interim pool, planned for completion around 2027, will feature a 25-meter sports pool and a learner pool. Sportpark Nord embodies the spirit of sport and community. It is a testament to Bonn’s commitment to providing excellent sporting facilities.