Sporting Charleroi granted permit for new stadium

Image via Wikimedia Commons

Belgian Pro League football team Sporting Charleroi has been awarded a building permit by the City of Charleroi to create its new stadium.

The complex will be built at Marchienne-au-Pont on wasteland that was formerly used for steelworks and mining projects. The multi-functional stadium was among the proposals disclosed by the City of Charleroi, with the club previously emphasising the need for a new home when it launched its ‘Horizon 2024’ vision.

The project has subsequently been delayed, mostly owing to the COVID-19 problem, although Sporting hopes to move into their new home in time for the 2026-27 season. The 20,000-seat stadium was designed by French architecture firm Mariotti & Associés and Belgian business Carré 7, and it promises to be a European first with its translucent roof.

Cyril Rousseaux, managing architect at Carré 7, spoke on the design and functions the new stadium will possess.

“This innovative roof will make the Zebrarena unique in Europe, the stands and the pitch will be protected from wind, rain and snow,” he said via media release.

“The Zebrarena will be able to host large concerts without the organiser having to worry about bad weather. In the event of heavy rain, there will be no question of cancellation and that is a huge asset.

“We created an English-style stadium with four closed corners and stands very close to the playing area to allow supporters to be as close as possible to the players, as if they were in the match.”

While the building permission has been awarded, development on the stadium is not scheduled to begin until 2025 since decontamination work on the site is ongoing. The Zebrarena is expected to cost slightly more than $76.6 million, with Sporting and private investors covering the entire cost.

Sporting has played in the Stade du Pays de Charleroi since 1939, and the stadium has been extensively renovated to serve as a host site for Belgium’s co-hosting of UEFA Euro 2000 with the Netherlands. Its capacity for the event was 30,000, however, that has now been reduced to 15,000.

Image credit: Football Victoria

The Celebrating Ability event will take place at The Home of The Matildas on Saturday, December 6.

The event promises an interactive day of learning and connection, featuring group workshops, the launch of Football Victoria’s new Disability Football Framework, and club education sessions with Aspect to promote inclusion across all levels of the game.

The Celebrating Ability event will offer a completely free, in-person opportunity for clubs to explore the space and take part in the celebration of the International Day of People With a Disability (IDoPWD).

The day will include:

Launch: Football Victoria will officially unveil its Disability Football Framework on December 3

Workshop: Clubs can learn how to start and run an All Abilities program

Education Session: Delivered by Football Victoria’s partners, providing practical guidance and support

Engagement: Attendees will gain insights from guest speakers and have the opportunity to connect with other clubs, coaches, and administrators

Event Details

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025

Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm

Where: The Home of the Matildas, Sports Drive, Bundoora, 3083

Registration: Registration is required. Please use the link below to secure your place

This event offers an excellent opportunity for clubs across Victoria to engage, learn, and celebrate ability. Clubs are encouraged to share this opportunity with anyone who may be interested.

Image credit: Macarthur Bulls FC

Macarthur Bulls FC has confirmed the beginning of a two-year strategic alignment with Alvaro Logistics Group, who will join the Club as a Senior Partner.

Under the agreement, Alvaro Logistics Group will serve as the official back-of-short sponsor, with its logo prominently displayed on the Bulls’ Isuzu UTE A-League Men Home and Away kits.

Alvaro’s support highlights a shared dedication to growing the game and creating positive opportunities within the community. Through this partnership, the club will engage more closely with locals, support programs that nurture participation and talent, and champion initiatives that bring fans closer to the heart of the club.

Founded in 1978, Alvaro Logistics delivers Contract Management and Warehouse Solutions through a custom-built fleet, offering tailored services that drive fast, effective results. Their expertise is proven through long-term collaboration with clients across industries such as steel, FMCG, plumbing, and container handling, supported by comprehensive distribution facilities.

Mario Alvaro, Director of Alvaro Logistics Group, stated that the company is proud to join forces with a club that embodies its values.

“Macarthur Bulls FC represents the heart and ambition of South West Sydney,” he said via press release.

“As a local business, we’re passionate about giving back to the community that’s supported us for so many years. Partnering with the Bulls allows us to contribute to programs that inspire the next generation and bring people together through football.”

Mark Jensen, Chief Commercial Officer of Macarthur Bulls FC, said the partnership represents mutual interests to driving meaningful growth and impact in the region.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Alvaro Logistics Group to the Bulls family,” he said via press release.

“Alvaro Logistics Group are a proudly local business with deep ties to South West Sydney, and their support will help us continue growing football from the grassroots up. This partnership is about more than sponsorship – it’s about investing in people, community, and opportunity and supporting a team the is truly invested in its South West Sydney.”

Through their joint efforts, they will foster participation, support regional development, and deepen the bond between the club and its supporters.