After 13 years of historic matches at Warsaw’s PGE Narodowy Stadium, the Polish national football team is making a major move to the Silesian Stadium in Chorzów. The decision by the Polish Football Association (PZPN) marks the end of an era in the capital, where the team achieved unforgettable victories and built a deep connection with fans. Now, a new chapter begins in the south, at one of Poland’s most storied football venues.
Closing the Curtain on a Legendary Stadium
For many, PGE Narodowy was more than a stadium—it was a symbol of national pride. Opened during Euro 2012, it became the scene of Poland’s greatest football moments, including the historic 2-0 win over Germany in 2014 that broke new ground for the team. The stadium’s dominance continued for years, with no opponent managing a win in Warsaw between 2014 and 2021.
However, rising operational costs spelled trouble. With rental fees doubling to over two million PLN per game, negotiations between PZPN and the stadium’s operator broke down. Faced with financial pressure, the PZPN made the tough call to move its matches to Chorzów, a city with a rich football tradition and a venue well-suited for the national team’s ambitions.
Chorzów Becomes the New Football Hub
The Silesian Stadium is set to host four World Cup qualifiers in 2025, starting with a match against Lithuania in March. Games against Malta, Finland, and a heavyweight like Spain or the Netherlands will follow. Additionally, the stadium will host the 2025 Polish Cup final, solidifying its role as a key venue for major events. For the first time ever, PGE Narodowy will not host a single Polish national team game in a calendar year—a decision that has sparked both disappointment and debate.
Financial Pressures and Political Undercurrents
While rising costs were the main driver, some point to political tensions as another factor. Disputes between PZPN and the Ministry of Sport and Tourism, ranging from funding disagreements to legislative clashes, may have contributed to the breakdown in relations. Moving to Chorzów allows PZPN to avoid passing on higher ticket prices to fans, while also leveraging the influence of Henryk Kula, a key figure in the Silesian football community.
This information comes from the unofficial findings reported by meczyki.pl.