Municipal Sports and Recreation Center Stadium in Mielec

The football and athletics stadium of the Municipal Sports and Recreation Center in Mielec, located at 1 Solskiego Street, is a significant sports facility in the region. Opened in 1953, it initially featured a main football pitch and two stands with a capacity of 7,000 spectators. Over the following years, the stadium underwent gradual expansion. Between 1972 and 1976, modern stands were constructed, ultimately accommodating 30,000 spectators, though in practice, attendance reached up to 40,000 during high-profile European matches. Artificial lighting was also installed, which at the time of its inauguration was among the most powerful in the country. Throughout its history, the stadium has hosted both important domestic matches and international competitions. In 1990, due to the financial crisis of WSK-Mielec and the political transformation in Poland, the stadium temporarily became a marketplace, underscoring its role within the local community. The facility underwent a comprehensive modernization between 2010 and 2013, allowing it to reopen in a modernized form while preserving its historical value. The stadium has also served as a home ground for clubs unable to play matches in their own facilities, further highlighting its importance in Polish football. Interestingly, some of the stadium’s floodlights are used as transmitters for radio programs, making it not only a sports venue but also a communication hub. Thus, the Mielec stadium boasts a rich history, serving as both an arena for athletic endeavors and an important element of the region’s cultural identity.