Estadio Marcelo Bielsa Newell's
Home of Newell's Old Boys, 'El Coloso del Parque' is where Messi began his journey. Experience passionate Argentine football.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unrivaled passion and energy
Estadio Marcelo Bielsa Newell's
Best Time
Unrivaled passion and energy
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home of Newell's Old Boys, 'El Coloso del Parque' is where Messi began his journey. Experience passionate Argentine football.
"The stadium is always full of capacity and you can expect an amazing atmosphere!"
🎟️ Secure Match Tickets Early
Tickets for 'clásico' games sell out fast. Check social media or buy a few days in advance outside the stadium.
🚶♂️ Explore Messi's Roots
Wander the neighborhood where Messi grew up; it's a pilgrimage site with murals and fan tributes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lionel Messi's Hometown Connection
Neighborhoods around the stadium
Explore murals and sites dedicated to Messi's early days, a pilgrimage for fans wanting to connect with his origins.
The 'Clásico' Atmosphere
Estadio Marcelo Bielsa
Witness the intense rivalry between Newell's Old Boys and Rosario Central, a spectacle of passion and chants.
Modernizing 'El Coloso'
Estadio Marcelo Bielsa
See the ongoing renovations, including new stands and VIP boxes, as the stadium evolves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Matchday Magic & Messi's Roots
Stadium Upgrades & Fan Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Secure Match Tickets Early
Tickets for 'clásico' games sell out fast. Check social media or buy a few days in advance outside the stadium.
🚶♂️ Explore Messi's Roots
Wander the neighborhood where Messi grew up; it's a pilgrimage site with murals and fan tributes.
🤝 Embrace the Fan Culture
Join in the chants and experience the vibrant 'rojinegro' atmosphere – it's electric!
👀 Sneak In for the Game?
One tip suggests waiting until halftime to potentially sneak in for a match if tickets are unavailable.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Secure Match Tickets Early
Tickets for 'clásico' games sell out fast. Check social media or buy a few days in advance outside the stadium.
🚶♂️ Explore Messi's Roots
Wander the neighborhood where Messi grew up; it's a pilgrimage site with murals and fan tributes.
🤝 Embrace the Fan Culture
Join in the chants and experience the vibrant 'rojinegro' atmosphere – it's electric!
👀 Sneak In for the Game?
One tip suggests waiting until halftime to potentially sneak in for a match if tickets are unavailable.
🚗 Getting to the Stadium
Consider local transport or taxis. Parking can be challenging on match days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the electric atmosphere and the stadium's deep connection to football legends like Lionel Messi and Marcelo Bielsa. However, some reviews point to the stadium's aging infrastructure and occasionally challenging fan experiences, suggesting it's a place of raw passion rather than polished comfort.
"Enjoy Leo Messi´s story and a vibrant game at “El Coloso del Parque”
https://www.tripadvisor.es/AttractionProductReview-g312809-d27418716-NewellsOldBoysMatchdayandMessiTour-RosarioProvinceofSantaFeLitoral.html
I will take you through the quarter's surroundings, where Argentine football star Lionel Messi started. It has become a pilgrimage site for many fans. In many ways, he is still there, in towering murals, love messages, and residents’ memories. I will tell you about the story of Leo in Rosario.
Then, we will go to the Stadium surroundings to enjoy a pre-match appetizer and beers. We will be ready for the game once we are warmed up with meals and chants.
The stadium is always full of capacity and you can expect an amazing atmosphere!"
Ignacio Irusta
"The worst stadium in the world, the worst and could fans in the world, the worst atmosphere in the world, do not visit this place you will freeze."
Marcos Delgado
"What an amazing experience - I had to sneak in to the stadium to watch El clásico - wait until half time and you should be able to get in no problems!!"
Sean F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Estadio Marcelo Bielsa, also known as 'El Coloso del Parque,' is located in Rosario's Parque Independencia. You can reach it via local buses or taxis from the city center. On match days, expect increased traffic and consider arriving early.
Parking around the stadium can be very difficult, especially on game days. It's often recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid the hassle.
While official stadium tours might not always be available, you can often explore the exterior and surrounding areas. Check local listings or club information for any scheduled events or access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased a few days before the match outside the stadium or through official club channels. Keep an eye on Newell's social media for announcements.
Yes, tickets for the 'clásico' are highly sought after and sell out quickly due to the intense rivalry. It's advisable to secure them well in advance.
The stadium currently has a capacity of approximately 42,000 spectators, with ongoing renovations aiming to increase this number.
Yes, like most stadiums, there are various seating sections. For the best atmosphere, consider seats closer to the active fan sections, though this can also mean more noise.
Ticket prices can vary significantly depending on the match, opponent, and seating location. For the most accurate information, check official club sources closer to the game date.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is renowned for its passion and intensity, especially during 'clásico' matches. Expect vibrant chants, flags, and a strong sense of community from the 'rojinegros'.
While the atmosphere is passionate, security is present. However, some reviews mention negative experiences with fans or crowd control, so it's wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Typically, stadiums offer basic food and beverage options like hot dogs, snacks, and soft drinks. For a more local experience, consider pre-match appetizers and beers in the surrounding area.
Newell's has been undertaking modernization projects, including new stands and VIP boxes, to enhance the stadium's facilities and capacity.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but professional equipment might require special permits. Be mindful of other spectators and avoid obstructing views.
🎫 ⚽ Football & History
It's famously known as the home of Newell's Old Boys and the place where Lionel Messi began his football journey. It has hosted significant matches, including Copa Libertadores games.
Yes, Lionel Messi has played at the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa, notably during his brief stint with Newell's Old Boys in his youth and for the Argentine national team.
The stadium was renamed 'Estadio Marcelo Bielsa' in 2009 in honor of the iconic Argentine coach who has deep ties to Newell's Old Boys.
The stadium has witnessed many historic matches, including Newell's victories in the Copa Libertadores semifinals and intense 'clásicos' against Rosario Central.
'El Coloso del Parque' translates to 'The Colossus of the Park,' referring to the stadium's imposing presence within Rosario's Parque Independencia.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, focus on securing tickets in family-friendly sections if available. While food options inside might be standard stadium fare, exploring the surrounding neighborhoods for local snacks before or after the game can be a fun adventure. Be prepared for large crowds and ensure you have a clear plan for meeting points if you get separated.
⚽ Football Purists & Groundhoppers
Experience the authentic Argentine football atmosphere by attending a match, ideally a 'clásico' for the ultimate intensity. Even if you can't catch a game, exploring the stadium's exterior and the surrounding 'barrios' where Messi grew up offers a deep dive into the club's heritage. Keep an eye out for ongoing renovations, as they are part of the stadium's evolving story.
✈️ Budget Travelers
To save on food and drinks, consider eating at local 'parrillas' (grill houses) or smaller eateries in Rosario before heading to the stadium, rather than relying solely on stadium concessions. Utilizing public transportation like buses is also a cost-effective way to reach the stadium from the city center, compared to taxis or ride-sharing services.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Lionel Messi and 'El Coloso'
The stadium itself, affectionately known as 'El Coloso del Parque' (The Colossus of the Park), is a testament to the passionate football culture of Rosario. While some reviews describe it as 'run-down,' it's also undergoing significant modernization. Recent upgrades include new stands and VIP areas, aiming to enhance both capacity and fan experience. This blend of historical significance and ongoing development makes it a dynamic place to visit.
Beyond Messi, the stadium has a rich history of hosting crucial matches, including Copa Libertadores fixtures and the fiercely contested 'clásico' against Rosario Central. The atmosphere on matchdays is legendary, characterized by fervent support, vibrant displays, and an electric energy that encapsulates Argentine football passion.
Understanding Newell's Old Boys Fan Culture
This passion is particularly evident during the 'clásico' against fierce rivals Rosario Central. The rivalry is one of the most intense in Argentine football, and the atmosphere in the stadium during these games is unparalleled. It's a spectacle of local pride and sporting animosity that draws attention from across the footballing world.
While the passion is undeniable, it's worth noting that some visitor experiences have highlighted the intensity of fan interactions. One Reddit user even mentioned successfully 'sneaking in' to a match, suggesting a less formal ticketing process at times, though this is not recommended. Overall, embracing the fan culture means being prepared for a lively, sometimes boisterous, but always authentic football experience.
Stadium Modernization and Future Plans
These upgrades are not just about increasing numbers; they also focus on improving the fan experience with new VIP boxes and premium seating areas located close to the pitch. This development aims to bring 'El Coloso del Parque' up to contemporary stadium standards while preserving its historic character.
There's even talk of naming a new stand after Lionel Messi, underscoring his enduring connection to the club and the city. These ongoing improvements signal a commitment to the future of Newell's Old Boys and their iconic home ground.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit