Stade du Pays de Charleroi

Stade du Pays de Charleroi

Stade du Pays de Charleroi, often known by its historical name Stade du Mambourg, is a football stadium located in Charleroi, Belgium. It serves as the home ground for Royal Charleroi Sporting Club, affectionately known as “Les Zèbres” (The Zebras).

This stadium has a rich history and has undergone significant transformations, making it a notable venue in Belgian football. This guide provides essential information for visiting the stadium, understanding its past, and planning your event experience.

History of Stade du Pays de Charleroi

The site of Stade du Pays de Charleroi has been home to Sporting Charleroi since 1923, with the original stadium, then known as Stade du Mambourg, being inaugurated in 1939. The stadium has undergone several significant renovations and reconfigurations throughout its history.

Its most notable transformation occurred in preparation for UEFA Euro 2000, which Belgium co-hosted with the Netherlands. For the tournament, the stadium’s capacity was expanded to 30,000. During Euro 2000, Stade du Pays de Charleroi hosted three group stage matches, including a memorable encounter between England and Germany. Following Euro 2000, the stadium’s capacity was reduced to better suit Sporting Charleroi’s average attendances, settling around 15,000 in recent years. The stadium continues to be a vibrant hub for football in the Charleroi region.

Key Information

Official Name: Stade du Pays de Charleroi (also known as Stade du Mambourg)
Location: Boulevard Zoé Drion 19, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium
Established: 1939 (original stadium on site)
Capacity: 15,000
Home Team: Royal Charleroi Sporting Club (Sporting Charleroi)

Ticketing Information for Stade du Pays de Charleroi Events

Tickets for matches at Stade du Pays de Charleroi are primarily sold through the official channels of Royal Charleroi Sporting Club. It’s advisable to purchase tickets directly from these authorized sources.

How to Purchase Tickets:

  • Sporting Charleroi Official Ticketing: The primary source for match tickets is the official Royal Charleroi Sporting Club website. Visit their “Ticketing” section for information on upcoming fixtures, availability, and purchasing options: Sporting Charleroi Ticketing.
  • Club Memberships/Season Tickets: Becoming a club member or purchasing a season ticket is often the best way to secure seats for Sporting Charleroi matches and gain access to member benefits.
  • Venue Box Office: On match days, a limited number of tickets may be available for purchase directly at the stadium’s physical ticket office. However, for popular matches, it’s advisable to purchase in advance online.
  • Third-Party Ticketing Platforms: Reputable third-party sports travel or ticketing platforms like P1 Travel may offer tickets for Sporting Charleroi matches: P1 Travel – Sporting Charleroi. Always ensure the platform is authorized.

Important Ticketing Considerations:

  • Availability: While Sporting Charleroi matches don’t always sell out, high-profile games or those against rivals can have limited availability. Purchasing in advance is recommended.
  • Print-at-Home/Mobile Tickets: Many events utilize print-at-home or mobile tickets. Ensure you have your tickets readily accessible on your mobile device or printed out before arriving at the stadium for faster entry.
  • Conditions of Entry: Familiarise yourself with the stadium’s Conditions of Entry, which cover prohibited items and general stadium rules, to ensure a smooth and safe entry process.
  • Arrive Early: Gates typically open well before kick-off. Arriving early allows time for security checks, finding your seat, and soaking in the pre-match atmosphere.

Getting to Stade du Pays de Charleroi

Stade du Pays de Charleroi is located relatively close to Charleroi city centre and is well-connected by public transport.

1. By Air:

  • Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL): This airport is located approximately 15 km (9 miles) north of the city centre and the stadium.
    • Public Transport from Airport: Bus line A1 connects Charleroi Airport directly to Charleroi-Central train station. From there, you can connect to the stadium via metro or local bus.
    • Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services are available from the airport.

2. By Public Transport:

Charleroi’s public transport network (TEC) offers convenient options to reach the stadium.

  • Train: The main train station is Charleroi-Central (Charleroi-Sud). From the station, the stadium is a short distance away and can be reached by metro or bus.
  • Metro (Tram): Charleroi has a metro/tram system. Take Metro line M2 from “CHARLEROI Palais” or “CHARLEROI Central” towards “Anderlues Monument” and get off at “CHARLEROI Waterloo” stop. The stadium is a very short walk from this stop. The journey from the city centre is typically around 5-7 minutes.
  • Bus: Several TEC bus lines also serve the stadium area. From Charleroi-Central, bus lines like 18, 43, 50, 710, VILLE, E83, or S63 can take you close to the stadium. Look for stops like “CHARLEROI Janson” or “Marchienne-Zone”.
  • Planning Your Journey: Use the TEC website (letec.be) or a public transport planner like Moovit for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

3. By Car & Parking:

Driving to Stade du Pays de Charleroi is possible, and parking facilities are available.

  • Stadium Parking: The stadium has parking facilities, including the underground Q-Park Zoé Drion. Follow signage for stadium parking on event days.
  • Recommendation: Given the stadium’s proximity to the city centre and good public transport links, using the metro or bus from Charleroi-Central is often the most efficient way to reach the stadium on event days, helping to avoid potential traffic and parking congestion.

Important Travel Notes:

  • Arrive Early: On match days, the area around the stadium can be busy. Arriving well in advance allows time for travel, parking, and security checks.
  • Check Sporting Charleroi Website: Always refer to the official Royal Charleroi Sporting Club website for the most up-to-date travel advice, parking details, and public transport information for specific events.

Where to Stay Near Stade du Pays de Charleroi

Charleroi offers various accommodation options, primarily concentrated in the city centre and near the airport.

1. Hotels in Charleroi City Centre (Closest to Stadium/Main Station):

Staying in the city centre provides convenient access to the stadium via a short metro or bus ride, as well as dining and shopping.

2. Hotels Near Charleroi Airport (Brussels South Charleroi Airport – CRL):

These hotels are ideal for those arriving by air or seeking accommodation outside the immediate city bustle.

Booking Tips:

  • Consider Your Itinerary: If your visit is primarily for a match, a city centre hotel with good public transport links to the stadium is practical. If you have an early flight, an airport hotel might be better.
  • Check Reviews: Use reputable booking sites like Booking.com, Expedia, or TripAdvisor to compare options and read recent guest reviews.
TripAdvisor

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit

Last Updated on July 2, 2025 by Sports Tourist

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