Pardubice, Czech Republic – A bold vision for the future of Czech hockey is taking shape in Pardubice, as local billionaire Petr Dědek aims to begin construction on what he intends to be the world’s largest hockey arena this summer. The project, estimated to cost upwards of 15 billion Czech crowns (approximately $650 million USD), is slated for completion in 2029, and Dědek has publicly stated his ambition to attract National Hockey League (NHL) games to the facility.
The ambitious plan follows a recent agreement solidifying Dědek’s ownership of Dynamo Pardubice for the next 20 years. The deal, finalized after navigating a complex period including pandemic-related disruptions, sees Dědek’s HokejPCE company committing to invest at least 70 million crowns annually into the club, with the city of Pardubice contributing 24.5 million crowns towards youth development and an additional 4.1 million crowns for the club’s B-team. This represents a significant increase from the previous investment levels, and the long-term commitment signals a new era for the historic hockey club.
Dynamo Pardubice currently shares ownership with the city, which will see its stake reduced to 13% under the new agreement. The city will no longer have representation on the club’s supervisory board, but retains a veto power over strategic decisions. Crucially, the city is no longer responsible for the club’s past losses, a cumulative total of 96 million crowns that was a point of contention in previous negotiations.
Dědek’s plans extend beyond simply upgrading the existing facilities. He envisions a state-of-the-art arena capable of hosting not only Dynamo Pardubice games but similarly attracting major international events, including NHL contests. This ambition is supported by Pardubice’s growing reputation as a hockey powerhouse, currently ranking among the wealthiest clubs in the Czech Republic alongside Sparta Prague, and attracting top players returning from overseas leagues.
The financial commitment required for the arena has been a subject of debate. Initially, Dědek sought a commitment from the city of Pardubice to contribute 30 million crowns annually for two decades towards the project. However, city officials reportedly balked at this request, particularly in the lead-up to local elections, and ultimately declined to provide a formal financial guarantee. Despite this, Dědek remains committed to moving forward with the project, relying on private investment and revenue generated by the club.
Beyond the hockey arena, Dědek has also unveiled plans for a speed skating oval, further demonstrating his commitment to developing Pardubice into a major sporting hub. This project, while separate from the arena, underscores the scale of his investment and his vision for the city’s sporting future. Discussions regarding the speed skating oval have even involved former Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, indicating a broader level of political and economic support for Dědek’s initiatives.
The construction of the arena is expected to create numerous jobs and stimulate economic growth in the Pardubice region. The facility is intended to be more than just a sports venue; it’s envisioned as a multi-purpose entertainment complex capable of hosting concerts, conferences, and other large-scale events. The project’s success will depend on securing necessary permits, managing construction costs, and attracting sufficient revenue to ensure its long-term financial viability.
Dynamo Pardubice currently plays its home games at the Enteria Arena, which has a capacity of around 10,300 spectators. The new arena is planned to significantly exceed this capacity, potentially becoming the largest hockey arena in the world. While specific details regarding the arena’s capacity and design are still being finalized, Dědek has emphasized his commitment to creating a world-class facility that will elevate the profile of Czech hockey on the international stage.
The next key milestone for the project is the commencement of construction this summer. Dědek has indicated that he is confident in his ability to secure the necessary funding and navigate the logistical challenges associated with building such a large-scale facility. The completion of the arena in 2029 would mark a significant moment in the history of Pardubice and Czech hockey, potentially opening the door to new opportunities for the sport and the city.
Fans and stakeholders will be closely watching the progress of the project in the coming months and years. The realization of Dědek’s vision would not only provide Dynamo Pardubice with a state-of-the-art home but also position the city as a leading destination for hockey fans and athletes from around the globe. The club’s performance on the ice, coupled with the excitement surrounding the new arena, promises an exciting future for Czech hockey.
The club is currently preparing for the 2025/26 Extraliga season, with expectations high after securing significant financial backing. The increased budget, nearing 400 million crowns, will allow Dynamo Pardubice to compete for top talent and challenge for the championship. The arena project, while still years away, serves as a powerful symbol of the club’s ambition and its commitment to long-term success.
As construction plans move forward, the city of Pardubice and Dynamo Pardubice are poised for a period of significant growth and development. The arena represents a substantial investment in the region’s future, and its success will depend on the continued collaboration between the club, the city, and the local community.
