Bishan Stadium, situated in the central part of Singapore, is a multi-purpose stadium known for its vibrant sports culture and modern facilities. Built in 1998 and managed by Sport Singapore, the stadium is a key venue for football matches and various other sports events. It serves as the main home ground for the Singapore Premier League team, Lion City Sailors, and is third in line to host international football matches after the Singapore National Stadium and Jalan Besar Stadium.
Facilities and Usage
The stadium is open to the public from 4:30 am to 8:30 pm daily, except during exclusive sporting events. Adjacent to the stadium, the Bishan Sports and Recreation Centre includes an indoor sports hall with facilities for badminton, table tennis, and gymnastics. The complex also houses the Bishan Sports Hall and Bishan Swimming Complex, making it a comprehensive hub for sports enthusiasts.
Historical Significance
Since its inception, Bishan Stadium has been the home ground for Home United, now known as Lion City Sailors. It hosted the team’s home matches in the Asian Football Confederation Cup from 2004 to 2006. The stadium has also been a training base for various international teams, including the Australia national football team in 2007 and the Japan national football team in 2015.
Major Events and Championships
Bishan Stadium has been a venue for several significant sports events:
- 2010 Summer Youth Olympics: Served as the athletics venue.
- 2015 Southeast Asian Games: Hosted group stage matches for football.
- AFF Championship 2020: Hosted most of the Group B matches involving Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos, and Cambodia.
- International Matches: Hosted matches against national teams from Mauritius and Fiji in 2018.
Recent Developments
The stadium underwent a returfing exercise after the 2020 Singapore Premier League season, with the new pitch completed towards the end of 2021. Despite this, the pitch was declared unplayable after the 2020 AFF Championship. The Lion City Sailors returned to Bishan Stadium for the 2023 Singapore Premier League season after a two-year hiatus.
Technological Advancements
Bishan Stadium has been retrofitted with advanced Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, marking its debut in the 2023 season of the Singapore Premier League. The stadium now features remote cameras that relay feeds to the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) headquarters. This setup includes pitch-side camera systems with up to 40-times zoom and improved network connectivity, ensuring enhanced reliability and a smoother viewing experience. The VAR aims to reduce refereeing errors, providing more accurate and fair decisions during matches.
Accessibility
Bishan Stadium is conveniently located near Bishan MRT station on the North-South Line, ensuring easy access for spectators and athletes. Additionally, buses 53 and 410G/W stop at the bus stop opposite the stadium, enhancing its accessibility via public transport.
Bishan Stadium stands as a testament to Singapore's commitment to providing top-notch sports facilities and fostering a vibrant sports culture. With its rich history, state-of-the-art technology, and comprehensive amenities, the stadium continues to be a vital venue for both local and international sports events. Whether for professional athletes or casual sports enthusiasts, Bishan Stadium offers a dynamic and engaging environment for all.