VfL Wolfsburg
Introduction
The city of Wolfsburg was built by the National Socialists in 1938 to house workers at the factory they had set up to build the first Volkswagen cars. The club we know today as VfL Wolfsburg began life as the football branch of the factory sports club – effectively a works team.
After the war the Wolves progressed steadily through the divisions until they finally gained promotion to the Bundesliga in 1997. They have remained in the top tier since then, and have come a major power in German football, winning the League in 2009 and the Cup in 2015 and featuring regularly in Champions League and Europa League competitions. In terms of finance, size of fan base and sustained success they are considered to be one of Germany’s top five teams.
Going to a game
Stadium : The Volkswagen Arena opened in December 2002. It has a capacity of 30,000, including 8,000 standing places.
Tickets : You can get tickets at the online shop. You can either have them sent to you or print them yourself using Print@Home.
Directions : You can easily get to the stadium on foot in 20 minutes.
They operate a cashless system inside the stadium. You need to pick up a card when you arrive and load it with some cash. You then use it like a debit card to buy food and drink – then then get a refund of unspent funds before you leave.
What can I do before and after the football?
Visit Autostadt
This is a collection of brand new buildings all dedicated to cars – past, present and future. There is a museum and a cinema. You can book to do test drives and try out the latest technology, and there are pavilions dedicated to iconic brands such as Lamborghini and Audi. There are cafes and restaurants, exhibitions and interactive displays. Even if you are not a fan of the motor car you will love Autostadt.
Autostadt is ten minutes on foot from the main station.
Go to Phaeno
This is a fascinating Science museum packed with interactive displays and the very latest technology. It is worth a visit just to see the building, which was designed by award-winning architect Zaha Hadid.
Phaeno is an easy walk from the main station.
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