The stadium's seating capacity is significantly larger than the total population of Lens.
The four main stands are named after prominent figures related to the club's history: Marek, Delacourt, Trannin, and Lepagnot.
The stadium was originally built in 1932 by the mining company Compagnie des mines de Lens for its employees.
It was renamed in 2012 to honor Félix Bollaert, a mining company director, and André Delelis, a former mayor of Lens.
The stadium design intentionally mimics traditional English football ground architecture.
During the 1998 World Cup, the stadium hosted the round-of-16 match between France and Paraguay.
The local supporters, known as 'Sang et Or' (Blood and Gold), are considered among the most loyal in French football.
The stadium is situated on the site of a former coal mine.
Stade Bollaert-Delelis is the home stadium of the professional football club RC Lens, located in the former coal-mining heart of northern France. The stadium is unique for its English-style design with four independent stands surrounding the pitch, rather than a continuous bowl. Its capacity is approximately 38,000, which notably exceeds the total population of the city of Lens itself. The venue was a host site for the 1984 UEFA European Championship, the 1998 FIFA World Cup, and the 2016 UEFA European Championship. It occupies a site formerly associated with the local mining industry, reflecting the region's industrial heritage. The stadium underwent significant renovations to modernize facilities for the 2016 tournament while retaining its signature four-stand structure. It frequently hosts high-intensity Ligue 1 football matches and is widely recognized for having one of the most passionate supporter bases in France.
From the exterior near the main entrance to capture the full scale of the four distinct stands.
Wear the club's colors, red and gold, to blend in with the local fans.
Arrive well before kickoff to experience the stadium's pre-match atmosphere and fan songs.
Book tickets significantly in advance, as matches are frequently sold out.
Do not attempt to wear opposing team colors in the home supporter stands for safety reasons.
Closed for general tours on match days and during the off-season summer break.
Respect the home supporters' traditions; standing and chanting are common in designated sections.
