Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes, located in Córdoba, Argentina, is one of the country’s most iconic and revered sports venues. As a cornerstone of Argentine football, it serves as the home ground for major matches, although it is not the primary home of clubs like Talleres, Belgrano, Racing, and Instituto for all their league games. It is, however, the go-to venue for the most important fixtures, from highly anticipated derby clashes to international tournaments. More than just a stadium, it is a symbol of a city deeply passionate about sport and culture. This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make your visit a memorable one.
History and Design
The stadium was constructed for the 1978 FIFA World Cup and was originally named Estadio Córdoba. Its design features a distinctive bowl shape and a capacity to accommodate tens of thousands of passionate fans, creating an electrifying atmosphere. In 2010, the stadium was renamed in honour of Mario Alberto Kempes, the legendary Argentine forward who was a key player in the 1978 World Cup-winning team. The venue has undergone several major renovations, most notably for the 2011 Copa América, which modernised its facilities and improved fan access, solidifying its place as a top-tier sporting arena.
Major Events Hosted
Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes has been the stage for some of the most important events in South American sports and entertainment.
- Football: Hosted matches for the 1978 FIFA World Cup and the 2011 Copa América final. It also serves as a crucial venue for key domestic league matches.
- Rugby Union: The stadium is a frequent host for The Rugby Championship, welcoming the Argentine national team, Los Pumas, for clashes against powerhouse teams like the All Blacks and Springboks.
- Music Concerts: The venue has hosted some of the world’s biggest musical acts, including U2, Madonna, Paul McCartney, and Iron Maiden, attracting tens of thousands of concertgoers.
Key Information
Official Name: Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes
Location: Córdoba, Argentina
Opened: May 1978
Capacity: 57,000
Primary Tenants: Used by major local clubs including Talleres and Belgrano for high-profile matches.
Address: Av. Piamonte S/N, Córdoba, Argentina
Getting to the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes
The stadium is located in the Chateau Carreras neighbourhood, a short distance from the city centre, and is well-served by various transport options.
By Air
- Ingeniero Ambrosio L.V. Taravella International Airport (COR): The main airport for Córdoba, located north of the city. From there, you can easily take a taxi or a local bus service to reach the city centre.
By Public Transport
- Bus (Colectivos): The local bus system is the most common way to get to the stadium. On match days, special routes often operate to transport fans directly to the venue. Look for routes that go to the Chateau Carreras area.
By Car & Parking
- Address for Navigation: Av. Piamonte S/N, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Parking: While there are parking areas around the stadium, they can become extremely crowded on event days. It is strongly recommended to use public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing services to avoid congestion.
Tickets at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes
Tickets for matches and other events at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes can be purchased through several channels, but it’s essential to plan ahead, especially for high-profile matches.
Football Match Tickets
Tickets for home matches for clubs like Talleres, Belgrano, Racing, and Instituto are typically handled by the clubs themselves.
- Talleres: Tickets are sold online through the official Club Atlético Talleres website and authorised ticketing partners. On event days, there may be ticket windows available at the stadium, but it is not guaranteed.
- Belgrano: Tickets are available for purchase on the official Club Atlético Belgrano website and at designated physical locations in the city. For derby matches, tickets are highly sought after and often sell out quickly.
- Racing de Córdoba & Instituto: Both clubs use their official websites and physical points of sale to manage ticket sales for their home games. Tickets for big games are usually announced in advance.
Other Events
Tickets for concerts or other sporting events are sold through the event organizers and major ticket platforms, such as Ticketek.
Booking Tips
It is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for high-profile matches and concerts, as the stadium often sells out. Be sure to check the official club websites or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on ticket sales.
Where to Stay Near Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes
Staying in central Córdoba offers a great balance between easy access to the stadium and the ability to explore the city’s vibrant culture.
- Nueva Córdoba: This is a popular and lively neighbourhood known for its wide streets, beautiful architecture, and thriving nightlife. It has a great selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars, and is well-connected to the stadium by public transport.
- Downtown (Centro): Staying in the city centre puts you close to all the main historic sites, museums, and shopping streets. It’s a convenient base with numerous bus lines running to the stadium area.
- Booking Tips: Hotel availability can be limited during major events, so it’s a good idea to book well in advance. Make sure your accommodation is close to a bus stop for a simple trip to the stadium on event day. Utilise well-known and reputable booking websites like Tripadvisor to find and compare accommodation options.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit
Last Updated on August 15, 2025 by Sports Tourist