Hartberg’s profertil Arena officially reopened today following a rapid, nearly year-long renovation designed too meet Bundesliga standards [[1]].The €9 million project, a collaborative effort between the city of Hartberg, the state of Styria, and TSV Hartberg, culminates just in time for a high-stakes Steiermark Derby against reigning champions SK sturm Graz [[2]]. The modernized 5,500-capacity venue-a notable upgrade from its previous state-represents a key investment in the future of professional football in the region and highlights the growing prominence of TSV Hartberg on the Austrian Bundesliga stage [[3]].
Hartberg, Austria – November 30, 2025 – TSV Hartberg celebrated the official opening and dedication of its renovated Profertil Arena today, just days after returning to its home pitch following a temporary relocation. The modernized stadium is set to host a crucial Steiermark Derby against reigning champions SK Sturm Graz, marking a significant milestone for the club and its supporters.
The project, completed in a matter of months, saw the city of Hartberg and TSV Hartberg collaborate to upgrade the facility after securing a €9 million (approximately $9.7 million USD) commitment from the Styrian state government in autumn 2024. The first phase of renovations focused on achieving Bundesliga compliance, replacing temporary steel scaffolding on the north and south sides with permanent structures and upgrading the main stand.
The Profertil Arena now boasts a capacity of 5,500, including 2,770 covered seats, 2,320 covered standing areas, and 410 uncovered standing spaces. Construction involved the use of 250 tons of steel, 12,000 screws, and 28 kilometers (17.4 miles) of cabling. TSV Hartberg was forced to play its home matches at the Bundesstadion Südstadt in Lower Austria for several months during the construction period, but returned to Hartberg for a November 22nd Bundesliga match against SV Ried.
During the opening ceremony, Styrian Governor Mario Kunasek, alongside Regional Councillor Karlheinz Kornhäusl, congratulated Hartberg Mayor Marcus Martschitsch and the TSV Hartberg leadership team, including President Brigitte Annerl and Chairman Erich Korherr. “The TSV Hartberg has stood for passion, cohesion, and impressive continuity for almost 80 years,” said Governor Kunasek. “The club consistently demonstrates that success in top-level football is possible with a clear philosophy, strong team spirit, and genuine regional connection. The current success is closely linked to President Brigitte Annerl and Chairman Erich Korherr, whose commitment and vision sustainably shape the club – most recently demonstrated by reaching the ÖFB-Cup final in Klagenfurt.”
He continued, “With the renovated stadium, TSV now has a modern, future-proof sporting home that meets all Bundesliga requirements. The state of Styria, the municipality, and the club have worked together to achieve a strong result. The state of Styria is a reliable partner of local sports and supports the stadium renovation with several million euros. I thank everyone who made this project possible and wish TSV Hartberg continued sporting success.”
Deputy Governor Manuela Khom, responsible for the city of Hartberg, praised the swift completion of the project following decisions made at the end of 2024. “Thanks to the close cooperation between the city of Hartberg, TSV Hartberg, and the current and previous state governments, it was possible to bring the Hartberg stadium up to the latest standards in a very short time,” Khom stated. “This not only secures Bundesliga football in Hartberg but also provides important impetus for sports enthusiasm in the region and school sports. It was always clear to us: what TSV Hartberg has worked for athletically must not fail due to stadium infrastructure. I thank Mayor Marcus Martschitsch and the city of Hartberg as the owner of the stadium for their tireless efforts and good cooperation before and during construction and wish TSV Hartberg all the best for the current Bundesliga season!”
Graz/Hartberg, on November 30, 2025
