Remodeled Rommel Fernandez Stadium with modern facilities and lush green field

Estadio Rommel Fernández

Estadio Rommel Fernández Panama City Guide: Tickets, Hours & Travel Tips

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Estadio Rommel Fernández, Panama City’s premier sports and cultural venue, stands as a symbol of national pride, modernity, and community spirit. Located in the Juan Díaz district within the Ciudad Deportiva Irving Saladino complex, the stadium has evolved from its origins as Estadio Revolución into a state-of-the-art arena, hosting football, athletics, concerts, and major events. This comprehensive guide details the stadium’s history, facilities, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips—ensuring visitors experience the best of Panama City’s sporting and cultural life (es.wikipedia.org, wikiwand.com, TicketplusPTY, Fixture Calendar).

Stadium Origins and Historical Significance
Renaming and National Identity
Major Renovations
- 2006–2010 Modernization
- 2023–2024 Upgrades
Architectural Features and Facilities
Visiting Information
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Summary & Call to Action
Sources

1. Stadium Origins and Historical Significance

Estadio Rommel Fernández opened in 1970 as Estadio Revolución, marking Panama’s emergence as a regional sports host by staging the XI Central American and Caribbean Games. Conceived under the leadership of Omar Torrijos Herrera, the stadium was part of a visionary sports complex, alongside the Roberto Durán Arena and Eileen Coparropa Pool (es.wikipedia.org, wikiwand.com). The original structure featured a main grandstand with a modern, cantilevered roof and a capacity of 22,000—unprecedented for Panama at the time.

2. Renaming and National Identity

In 1993, the venue was renamed after Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez, Panama’s football legend, following his tragic death in Spain. Nicknamed “El Panzer,” Fernández’s legacy is honored through commemorative plaques and the stadium’s role as home to the Panama National Football Team and important Liga Panameña de Fútbol (LPF) finals. The stadium has witnessed memorable national moments, including Panama’s first World Cup qualifiers and historic victories (wikiwand.com, panamaadvisoryinternationalgroup.com).

3. Major Renovations

2006–2010 Modernization

A $25 million renovation transformed the stadium into a modern, all-seater venue, expanding capacity to 32,000. Upgrades included:

New seating and luxury boxes
Redesigned facade and grandstands
Improved athlete and media facilities
Enhanced accessibility and safety features
Modern lighting, giant screen, and air conditioning (es.wikipedia.org, wikiwand.com)

The re-inauguration was marked by the IX Central American Sports Games in April 2010.

2023–2024 Upgrades

Further renovations focused on international standards and fan experience:

Complete facade renewal
Upgraded drainage, lighting, and locker rooms
Ergonomic, numbered seating throughout
Removal of the protective field fence for improved sightlines
Enhanced food service areas and fan plaza
Renewed athletics track and technical zones (es.wikipedia.org)

The stadium reopened with the 2024 LPF Apertura final and Panama’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

4. Architectural Features and Facilities

Capacity: 32,000 all-seated
Grandstands: Modern, with partial coverage and unobstructed views
Athletics Track: Suitable for regional athletics events (wikiwand.com)
Hospitality: 126 luxury boxes, media booths, modern locker rooms (panamaadvisoryinternationalgroup.com)
Accessibility: Elevators, ramps, accessible seating and restrooms
Safety: Extensive surveillance, fire safety, and on-site medical facilities (es.wikipedia.org)

5. Visiting Information

Hours & Tours

Event Days: Gates open 1–2 hours prior to kickoff or showtime.
Non-Event Days: Limited access; contact the stadium for potential guided tours or special group visits (Estadio Rommel Fernández Official Site).

Ticketing

Online: Official platform TicketplusPTY, plus authorized outlets at major malls and club offices.
Box Office: Open on event days at the stadium.
Prices: General admission from $6; east stand ~$12; west stand ~$20; VIP $30–$40 for major matches (PTY Life).

Accessibility

Ramps, elevators, and designated areas for visitors with disabilities.
Assistance services available upon request.

Getting There & Transportation

Location: 2GPJ+86R, Calle 121 Este, Panama City, within Ciudad Deportiva Irving Saladino (mapcarta.com)
By Car: Accessible via Corredor Sur; on-site parking ($5, assigned by ticket type).
Public Transit: Metro to Fernando de Cordoba, then bus (Via España-Concepcion/Tocumen). Taxi and ride-sharing services are plentiful.
From Airport: ~20–25 minutes by car from Tocumen International Airport.

Amenities

Multiple concession stands (local snacks, beer, soft drinks)
Modern restrooms and accessible facilities
Wi-Fi connectivity and large screen displays
Merchandise stalls during major events

6. Nearby Attractions

Ciudad Deportiva Irving Saladino: Includes Roberto Durán Arena, Eileen Coparropa Pool, auxiliary sports fields, and Hipódromo Presidente Remón.
Casco Viejo: UNESCO-listed historic district, colonial architecture, plazas, nightlife (Panama City Travel Tips).
Panamá Viejo: Ruins of the original city, museum, cathedral tower.
Metropolitan Natural Park: Urban rainforest, hiking, city views.
Panama Canal & Miraflores Visitor Center: Iconic engineering marvel, interactive exhibits.
Costa del Este & San Francisco: Modern shopping and dining.
Ocean Sun Casino & Panaviera Restaurant: Upscale entertainment and dining.
Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar: Local cocktails and nightlife.

7. Visitor Tips

Arrive early for parking and smooth entry.
Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing; bring rain gear in wet season.
Stay hydrated; check stadium policies for outside beverages.
Experience the energy of the General Sur section for a local fan perspective.
Carry some cash for parking and concessions.
Plan extra time to visit nearby attractions and explore Panama’s history.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Generally 9:00 AM–6:00 PM on non-event days (with prior arrangement); event days, doors open 1–2 hours before kickoff.

Q: Where do I buy tickets?
A: Online at TicketplusPTY, at the stadium, or authorized outlets.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, on-site for $5; arrive early during major events.

Q: Is the stadium accessible?
A: Fully equipped for visitors with disabilities; some older areas may have limited access.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, by prior arrangement; contact stadium administration for availability.

Q: What should I wear?
A: Lightweight, comfortable clothes and shoes; sun protection is recommended.

Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: Casco Viejo, Panamá Viejo, Metropolitan Park, and the Panama Canal are top options.

9. Summary & Call to Action

Estadio Rommel Fernández is more than a stadium—it’s a living icon of Panamanian heritage and sporting ambition. Its state-of-the-art facilities, recent renovations, and central role in Panama’s cultural life make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Enhance your trip by exploring the city’s historic districts, enjoying world-class events, and immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that defines Panama City.

Plan your visit today!

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10. Sources

Estadio Rommel Fernández Wikipedia, 2024 (es.wikipedia.org)
Estadio Rommel Fernández Article, Wikiwand, 2024 (wikiwand.com)
Panama Advisory International Group Blog, 2024 (panamaadvisoryinternationalgroup.com)
Fixture Calendar - Estadio Rommel Fernández, 2024 (Fixture Calendar)
TicketplusPTY Official Site, 2024 (TicketplusPTY)
Official Estadio Rommel Fernández Website, 2024 (estadiorommelfernandez.pa)
PTY Life - Panama Soccer Game, 2024 (PTY Life)
Songkick - Estadio Rommel Fernández Events, 2024 (Songkick)
LPF - La LPF Volverá al Rommel Fernández, 2024 (LPF)