This is how the ArenA fills up

The lights come on, the stadium comes to life and the area around the Johan Cruijff ArenA begins to buzz. On every matchday, tens of thousands of Ajax supporters make their way inside, each at their own time. Some arrive early to soak up the atmosphere or grab a bite or a drink on the concourse, while others come later and head straight to their seat in the stands.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about how the stadium entry process works.

From opening to kick-off

What does the flow of supporters look like? When do entrances get busiest, and how can you make sure you’re inside in time for the warm-up or kick-off? Below, we outline the average flow at all entrances of the Johan Cruijff ArenA.

Based on data from this season’s Eredivisie matches at the ArenA, the busiest period usually starts around 45 minutes before kick-off. From that moment onwards, waiting times at the entrances tend to increase.

Don’t miss a moment, from warm-up to walk-on

Would you like to watch the players warm up? Or do you want to be inside in time for the players’ entrance accompanied by the Ajax march? In the overview, you can see where these moments fall in relation to the busiest periods. By taking this into account and entering the stadium a little earlier, you can make sure you don’t miss a thing.

When can you enter the stadium?

On a matchday, the stadium entrances open 1.5 hours before kick-off. From that moment on, the stadium is accessible to supporters with a valid ticket. Opening the entrances earlier for a major match? That usually makes little difference, as the period between 1.5 and 1 hour before kick-off is generally quiet, making it easy to enter the stadium.

Up until half-time, the stadium can be entered in the usual and straightforward way. After that, we prepare for the exit flow. This means escalators change direction and staff positions are adjusted. You are allowed to enter the stadium with a valid ticket throughout the entire match, but after half-time this may mean using the stairs instead of the escalators.

How you can help

A smooth entry process is something we make possible together. Small preparations can help ensure that the flow at the entrances remain pleasant and efficient.

• Check carefully which entrance is stated on your ticket. You can only enter via the entrance indicated;
• Have your own ticket ready upon arrival (one ticket per person);
• Check in advance what you are and are not allowed to bring;
• Bring as few items and/or bags as possible: only bags smaller than A4 size are permitted;
• Follow the instructions of the stewards;
• Join the back of the queue rather than entering from the sides: cutting in slows down the entry process;
• Give each other space at the entry gates.

This helps keep the flow moving, so everyone can enter the stadium at their own pace.

Well prepared, your way

Every supporter experiences a matchday differently. Whether you arrive early or head to your seat a little later, these insights help you know what to expect at the entrances of the ArenA.

Together, we ensure a stadium that comes to life step by step, ready for ninety minutes of football.