The stadium was originally named 'Estádio Municipal de Fortaleza' before being renamed to honor President Getúlio Vargas.
It hosted several matches during the 1950 South American Championship, an early precursor to the modern Copa América.
The venue is affectionately nicknamed 'O PV' by local football fans.
The 2011 renovation included the installation of a new grass pitch and modern lighting systems to accommodate televised night matches.
Presidente Vargas Stadium, commonly known as PV, is a historic multi-purpose stadium located in the Benfica neighborhood of Fortaleza. Inaugurated in 1941, the venue underwent significant renovations in 2011 to modernize its facilities and comply with updated safety standards. It features a capacity of approximately 20,000 spectators and serves as a secondary home for Fortaleza's major football clubs, including Ceará Sporting Club and Fortaleza Esporte Clube. The stadium is constructed primarily of concrete and retains a classic bowl design that positions spectators close to the pitch. It hosts professional state championship matches and lower-division national league fixtures throughout the Brazilian football calendar. The site is owned and maintained by the Fortaleza Municipal Government. It remains one of the most traditional sporting sites in the state of Ceará.
The central elevated press box area offers the best panoramic view of the entire pitch and the stadium's classic bowl architecture.
Check the local state league or CBF schedule online before visiting to confirm match dates, as the stadium is not open to tourists on non-event days.
Carry a portable battery and stay hydrated, as afternoon matches in Fortaleza can reach very high temperatures.
Prioritize sitting in the central covered stands if you want protection from the sun during daytime games.
Do not attempt to enter the stadium on non-match days, as the gates are strictly locked for facility security.
The stadium is closed to the public except during scheduled professional sporting events.
Avoid wearing jerseys of opposing teams if sitting in designated home-team supporter sections; casual sportswear is standard.
