History

The Ice Arena “Druzhba” one of the greatest Sport and Concert constructions in Donetsk was built in 1975. The Ice Arena of the Sports Palace was commissioned in 1976. Initially the Sport Palace accommodated up to 3500 spectators.

In November 2009 the first reconstruction of the Arena “Druzhba” took place.  During this reconstruction the elevation of the Building was renewed, replacing cooling facilities, creating the Media Club, installing new plastic borders and air conditioning system; four new locker rooms, referees and medical offices were also built.

From March 27 to April 2, 2011, the Arena held the World Championship 2010 among junior teams in Division II.

On April 8, 2011, on the Ice Arena “Druzhba”, a historical battle took place, in which HC “Donbass” Donetsk defeated for the second time the 12-time champions of Ukraine – Kiev “Sokol”, and for the first time in its history, became champion of Ukraine.

Ice Arena “Druzhba” became the home Arena for HC “Donbass”.

There was another large reconstruction of the Ice Arena “Druzhba” in summer 2011.

The number of seats was increased to 4100. The seats were replaced in accordance with the corporate colors of HC “Donbass”. The Fan-Shop appeared at the arena as well as cashier's offices and fast food outlets. Over the VIP sector were built commentator cabins.

After the reconstruction, the Arena “Druzhba” met the full requirements of the International Ice Hockey Federation as well as the requirements of the VHL Regulation.  Fourteen VIP boxes and new Media Center are working at the Arena!

In the season 2011/2012 HC “Donbass” participated in the Higher Hockey League for the first time.

With a little transformation the Arena becomes a playground for competitions in basketball, boxing, judo, as well as a concert venue for pop star performances.

Since 1990, the Ice Arena “Druzhba” has hosted the international athletic Tournament “Zvezdy Shesta” (Pole Vault Stars) organized by famous Sergiy Bubka. Since 2006, the Basketball Club “Donetsk” has held their matches there.

Every year in the Arena "Druzhba" Christmas party held in the framework of "Gorodskoy Golova - detyam Donetska".