Overview
Teddy Stadium (Hebrew: אצטדיון טדי) is a principal sports venue in Jerusalem, Israel, located in the Malha neighbourhood. Named for longtime mayor Teddy Kollek, it serves as the primary home ground for Beitar Jerusalem F.C. and Hapoel Jerusalem F.C. The stadium is among the more modern large-capacity venues in the country and is used for domestic league fixtures, cup matches, occasional international friendlies and public ceremonies. For information on the Hebrew name and municipal context see local references.

History

Plans for a new municipal stadium emerged to replace older, less well-equipped grounds used by Jerusalem clubs. Construction proceeded in stages: initially only the west and east stands were completed, creating a more modest arena that replaced the YMCA Stadium, nicknamed "The Sandbox" for its poor pitch condition. Later expansions increased seating and facilities; a significant extension added a north stand and upgraded spectator amenities. The stadium carries the name of Teddy Kollek in recognition of his long service to the city and his role in its cultural and civic development. For additional historical context see related resources.

Design and facilities

The venue was designed with spectator comfort and contemporary match requirements in mind. Current capacity is approximately 31,700 spectators, distributed among multiple covered and uncovered sections. The site includes floodlighting suitable for evening fixtures, team changing rooms and media facilities intended to meet international-match standards. The stadium provides substantial parking and crowd-management infrastructure: around 5,000 parking spaces are available in and near the complex, and a pedestrian bridge connects the stadium to the adjacent Malha Mall and its parking facilities.

Events and uses

Besides regular domestic league and cup matches, Teddy Stadium has hosted international fixtures, qualifying matches and national team friendlies when required. It has also been used for opening ceremonies of multi-sport events such as the Maccabiah Games and for large public gatherings or concerts when logistics and permissions make such events practicable.

Access and transport

The stadium benefits from its location near major transport routes, including the Begin Expressway, and is within walking distance of Malha Train Station, making rail travel a practical option for many spectators. Matchday public-transport arrangements and parking coordination are typically organized with municipal authorities to ease arrival and departure. For practical arrival information refer to location and access details.

Tenants and significance

Main tenants are Beitar Jerusalem and Hapoel Jerusalem, both of which have used the venue as their principal competition ground. Teddy Stadium replaced older neighbourhood venues and provided Jerusalem with a facility that improved spectator experience, safety and the ability to host higher-profile matches and events. It remains one of the city’s principal sports arenas and a focal point for large sporting occasions.

  • Main tenants: Beitar Jerusalem F.C., Hapoel Jerusalem F.C.
  • Approximate seating capacity: about 31,700
  • Location: Malha neighbourhood, Jerusalem; near Begin Expressway and Malha Train Station
  • Notable uses: domestic football, international matches, ceremonies and public events