The new Everton Stadium at Liverpool’s waterfront has been building excitement among fans for four years now. Finally, the long-awaited day has arrived, as the stadium hosted its first test event last night (January 17). What is more, Goodison Park faces the end of an era with one last game of Everton vs. Liverpool on February 11.
Everton fans got a sneak peek of the new Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock on February 17 as it opened its gates for the first time. 10,000 fans were lucky enough to witness the event, with an under-18s friendly game against Wigan.
The massive stadium, which seats 52,888, cost over £750 million to build over four years, and Everton is set to fully move in by summer 2025. Everton Stadium is set to become the seventh biggest in the Premier League.
Upon attending its first night, fans remarked at the size of the stadium, saying “it’s out of this world”, as Everton Stadium’s futuristic architecture firmly stands out of its surroundings.
Spectators also said: “We could not have wished for a better stadium. Everyone is excited, old and young.”, and “It will be a wrench to leave Goodison but when you see this, it is going to be the envy of everyone.”
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) spokesperson told BBC Sport: “The purpose of test events, like the one held last night, is to identify improvements and adjustments that can be made to ensure matchdays and large events progress smoothly and safely, particularly in terms of crowd management and managing the flow of passengers on to platforms.
“These test events will be subject to a comprehensive review with all organisations and partners involved. The queuing system in place at Sandhills station is modelled on the tried-and-tested arrangements used for major events such as the Grand National in Aintree.
“We’ll be taking on board comments from people who attended the event to see whether immediate steps can be taken to address specific concerns raised. Over the coming months the space will continue to be developed to become a welcoming and vibrant fan zone, with plans for new toilets, a fixed stage, food and refreshment areas and digital screens to enhance the visitor experience.
“We’ll continue working closely with partners at Merseyrail, Liverpool City Council and Everton FC, and will keep fans fully updated as the work to deliver these facilities progresses.”
When is the next test event at Everton Stadium?
The next test event at the new Everton Stadium will take place in March or April, hosting an under-21s friendly match with an increased capacity of 25,000. There is no set date yet set in stone, so watch this space!
Who can attend the next test event?
As in the previous event, fans will be able to enter the ballot. Supporters eligible to enter the ballot are:
- Existing Season Ticket Members
- Existing Goodison Park Hospitality Members
- Supporters who have committed to a 2025/26 Premium Bars, Restaurants and Experiences Membership
- Everton shareholders
The third test event
There will also be a third test event at Everton Stadium with an even larger capacity, with no details available to the public yet.