Before a recent Ligue 1 fixture between Strasbourg and Toulouse, the scene outside the Stade de la Meinau was a spectacle in itself. Hours before kickoff, thousands of supporters converged on the stadium's forecourt, transforming the area into a vibrant, bustling festival of football. This pre-match ritual is centered around a remarkable new venue that has quickly become the heart of the fan experience.
The focal point of this gathering is the 90+4, a sprawling fan zone that officially opened its doors in February 2025. Situated directly in front of the stadium's west stand—the future home of the passionate kop—this space has rapidly established itself as the primary meeting point for the club's faithful. Its scale is impressive, earning it the distinction of being the largest such dedicated fan zone in all of Europe.
On match days, the 90+4 can welcome a staggering number of visitors, with reports indicating crowds of up to 20,000 people. The atmosphere is consistently celebratory long before the players take the field. The air is filled with the sounds of rock music blaring from speakers, the enticing aroma of local specialties like tarte flambée (known locally as flammekueche) wafting from on-site ovens, and the visual spectacle of a sea of blue jerseys.
Fans arrive early, often two hours or more before the match begins, to soak in the pre-game energy. The zone is equipped to handle the massive influx, offering a wide selection of beverages and food to cater to the crowd. This early arrival and late departure—some fans linger for an hour after the final whistle—underscores the 90+4's role as more than just a waiting area; it's a destination in its own right.
The success of the 90+4 highlights a growing trend in football culture: the matchday experience extends far beyond the 90 minutes of play. Clubs are investing in creating comprehensive entertainment hubs that build community and excitement. For Strasbourg, this initiative has clearly resonated, providing a centralized, festive, and uniquely Alsatian gathering spot that enhances the overall spectacle for every supporter.
Based on reporting from Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continu.
