FNB stadium gears up for Soweto Derby

FANS in the South and Alberton can look forward to bumper entertaining events which include the much anticipated Soweto Derby, Nitro Circus and the iconic Soweto marathon.

Stadium Management South Africa, SMSA, announced on October 9 that they are looking forward to hosting fans at all these events at the FNB stadium and are positive that together with their partners they are geared up for these world class events.

The Soweto derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will kick-off at 3.30pm. Gates open at 12noon. Spectators are urged to arrive early for this match.

Kicking off the jam-packed weeks will be the Soweto Derby on October 21. It will be followed by the international Nitro Circus on October 29 and end with the iconic Soweto Marathon on November 5.

“We have taken into consideration what happened at the previous Soweto derby and have made several adjustments and recommendations to improve security and the checking of the valid tickets which the fans use to enter,” said Jacques Grobbelaar, CEO of SMSA.

“Together with our partners, namely JMPD, EMS and various security companies, we have outlined the ways in which we will operate from now on.”

“We tested these measurements on October 7 when Bafana Bafana and Burkino Faso played at the stadium.”

SMSA is focused on ensuring the correct communication reaches visitors at the stadium and also encourages open and inclusive participation in discussions around these events. Months of planning are required for each event and SMSA and their stakeholders are committed to creating world-class events for every occasion.

“We look forward to these three events after months of preparation and planning. As a venue and as an organisation, we aim to deliver only the best service and want to see over 120 000 visitors leave happy after the next three events. We’ve put measures in place to ensure safe roads and a safe stadium,” said SMSA Managing Director of Commerce, Nirusha Moodley.

“We want to stand together with South Africa and all international visitors and encourage responsible behaviour in and around the stadium. Late arrivals and visitors bringing prohibited items such as bottles and cans are a problem; therefore, we encourage early arrival as well as responsible public behaviour. SMSA has taken a clear stance. Tickets for events will only be available via Computicket and their affiliated outlets. No tickets will be on sale at the stadium on the day of the event. Consumers should be cautious of fraudulent activities and are urged not to buy tickets from unregistered vendors or third parties via unaffiliated websites or social media.”

Spectators should not bring any prohibited items like sharp pointed objects, any form of liquor, metal objects including cans, offensive posters, banners or flags. A full list of the prohibited items can be found on the SMSA website. Public transport is available on event days through Metrorail, Top6 Taxis, and Rea Vaya. The information schedule will be placed on the SMSA website and social platforms during the week of the highly-anticipated fixture or events.

Fans are encouraged to buy their parking and entry tickets beforehand. Tickets can only be purchased at Computicket and Shoprite Checkers.

The public is encouraged to familiarise themselves with the safety and security regulations put in place, the stadium environment, transport options and the laws that govern large-scale events. All information can be accessed at https://www.stadiummanagement.co.za

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