Located in Istanbul’s Beşiktaş district along the Bosphorus, İnönü Stadium was opened in 1947 as one of Türkiye’s first modern stadiums. Serving both sporting events and cultural organizations, the stadium has undergone numerous renovations throughout its history, becoming one of the city’s iconic landmarks. Today known as Tüpraş Stadium, it remains the home of Beşiktaş Jimnastik Kulübü (BJK) and holds a special place in the collective memory of Istanbul.
İnönü Stadium (Fanatik)
History
Construction and Opening
The foundations of the stadium were laid as part of French architect Henri Prost’s urban planning vision to modernize Istanbul. Built on the site of the former royal stables of Dolmabahçe Palace, the project was designed by Italian architect Paolo Vietti Violi in collaboration with Turkish architects Fazıl Aysu and Şinasi Şahingiray. Construction began on May 19, 1939, but was delayed until 1943 due to World War II and was completed in 1947. Named after İsmet İnönü, the stadium officially opened on November 27, 1947, with a match between Beşiktaş JK and Swedish club AIK. The first goal was scored by Beşiktaş legend Süleyman Seba.
Name Changes
In 1950, with the rise of the Democrat Party to power, the stadium's name was changed to Mithat Paşa Stadium. Following İsmet İnönü’s death, it was renamed İnönü Stadium in 1974. In 1998, an agreement with Beşiktaş Jimnastik Kulübü led to the official name "BJK İnönü Stadium."
Architecture and Renovations
Original Design
One of the most remarkable features of Violi’s design was the stadium’s unique location overlooking the Bosphorus. Originally with a capacity of 16,000, the stadium was gradually expanded through various renovation projects. Due to the presence of gasworks, the Maçka-side stands couldn’t initially be completed and were finally added in 1963 as the “Yeni Açık” (New Open) stand.
2000s and Modernization
At the end of the 2003–2004 season, the stadium underwent a major renovation. The pitch was lowered below sea level, reducing the distance between the stands and the field. In 2013, the old stadium was entirely demolished to make way for Vodafone Park, with a capacity of 41,903. Designed by Bünyamin Derman, the new stadium features modern technology and sustainable energy systems.
The Final Match at BJK İnönü Stadium: May 11, 2013 (AA)
Cultural and Sporting Role
Since its opening, İnönü Stadium served as the home ground for Beşiktaş JK. It also hosted national matches, international football tournaments, and various sporting events, including athletics and boxing competitions.
Cultural and Social Events
Beyond sports, the stadium also became a prominent venue for cultural events. It hosted concerts by global artists such as Bryan Adams, Metallica, and Madonna. The corridors of the stadium were even used as prison scenes in the film Vesikalı Yarim directed by Lütfi Akad.
Place in Collective Memory
İnönü Stadium holds a unique place in Istanbul’s collective memory. It played a significant role in public life by hosting national celebrations such as the May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day. Closely associated with Beşiktaş JK, the stadium contributed greatly to the development of fan culture and community identity.
