Explore the 22 Biggest Football Stadiums in the World – 2024 Edition

If you’re a football fan, you know there’s nothing like the feeling of walking into one of the world’s biggest stadiums and feeling the place shake under your feet. That’s the dream, right? To be surrounded by 100,000 fans, all singing, screaming, chanting, probably swearing a little. It’s the heartbeat of the game, and if you’re lucky enough to hit these places, you know what I’m talking about.

This list isn’t some tourist guide. This is for anyone who’s been out there in the real world of football, where the beers are warm, the fans are loud, and the game actually means something. So stay with me as I will not introduce you to the biggest stadiums in the world.

1. Rungrado 1st of May Stadium – Pyongyang, North Korea: 114,000
2. Camp Nou – Barcelona, Spain: 99,354
3. FNB Stadium (Soccer City) – Johannesburg, South Africa: 94,736
4. New Administrative Capital Stadium – Cairo, Egypt: 93,940
5. Rose Bowl – Pasadena, USA: 92,800
6. Cotton Bowl – Dallas, USA: 92,100
7. Wembley Stadium – London, UK: 90,000
8. Gelora Bung Karno Stadium – Jakarta, Indonesia: 88,083
9. Bukit Jalil National Stadium – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: 87,411
10. Borg El-Arab Stadium – Alexandria, Egypt: 86,000
11. Salt Lake Stadium – Kolkata, India: 85,000
12. Santiago Bernabéu – Madrid, Spain: 85,000
13. Stadium Australia – Sydney, Australia: 83,500
14. MetLife Stadium – New Jersey, USA: 82,500
15. Croke Park – Dublin, Ireland: 82,300
16. Jakarta International Stadium – Jakarta, Indonesia: 82,000
17. Signal Iduna Park – Dortmund, Germany: 81,365
18. Stade de France – Paris, France: 81,338
19. Luzhniki Stadium – Moscow, Russia: 81,000
20. Shah Alam Stadium – Selangor, Malaysia: 80,372
21. Estadio Monumental – Lima, Peru: 80,093
22. Maracanã Stadium – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: 78,838

1. Rungrado 1st of May Stadium – Pyongyang, North Korea

Rungrado 1st of May Stadium holds the title of the world’s largest stadium, with an impressive 114,000 seats. It’s not just known for size but also for hosting one of the most complex performances worldwide, the Arirang Mass Games.

Over 100,000 performers create scenes that are choreographed with military-level precision, blending gymnastics, music, and live mosaics, presenting a living canvas of stories about North Korea’s leadership.

The stadium saw major renovations in 2014, which added more seating and reinforced its structure, ensuring its status as a fortress of power and pageantry for years to come.

2. Camp Nou – Barcelona, Spain

Opened in 1957, it serves as the home ground for FC Barcelona, one of the world’s most celebrated football clubs. Camp Nou has been the stage for countless historic football moments, including Champions League clashes and international tournaments. I

ts design reflects Barcelona’s architectural flair, with a straightforward, modernist style that keeps fans close to the action, creating an unmatched atmosphere.

 

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Beyond football, Camp Nou has hosted major concerts, attracting artists like Michael Jackson and U2. It even served as the venue for Pope John Paul II’s mass in 1982, with a crowd exceeding 120,000 people.

Set to undergo extensive renovations by 2025, the stadium will see capacity expand to 105,000, with plans to add a retractable roof and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring Camp Nou remains a cornerstone of both football and cultural events in Barcelona.

3. FNB Stadium (Soccer City) – Johannesburg, South Africa

FNB Stadium, also known as Soccer City, is an iconic structure in South Africa and one of the most recognized stadiums in Africa. Located in Johannesburg, it was originally built in 1989 and underwent significant renovations in 2009 for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Known for its distinctive design, inspired by an African calabash (a traditional pot), the stadium’s exterior features a mosaic of earthy colors that mirrors African culture.

In addition to football, FNBStadium has hosted international music stars such as Beyoncé, U2, and Ed Sheeran. Its 2009 renovation increased capacity and added a modernized facade, luxury suites, and improved acoustics, making it suitable for concerts as well as sports.

The stadium’s design has been praised for its cultural symbolism, blending functionality with a tribute to African heritage, solidifying its place as a beloved landmark in South Africa.

4. New Administrative Capital Stadium – Cairo, Egypt

The New Administrative Capital Stadium, located just outside Cairo, stands as a centerpiece in Egypt’s modernized approach to infrastructure and development.

As part of Egypt’s larger project to build a new administrative capital, this stadium is the largest in the country and the second largest in Africa, showcasing Egypt’s investment in sports and global events.

Opened in 2024, its modern design is filled with elements that pay tribute to Egyptian culture and architecture. The stadium’s impressive scale has made it the home for many high-profile matches within the Egyptian Premier League and serves as an ideal venue for Egypt’s national team.

It reflects the country’s vision for future growth, with facilities tailored to accommodate the demands of large-scale sports and entertainment events.

Plans are in place to further integrate the stadium with the new capital’s infrastructure, positioning it as a landmark that represents Egypt’s commitment to progress and international appeal.

5. Rose Bowl – Pasadena, USA

The Rose Bowl in Pasadena is one of the most iconic stadiums in the United States, known for hosting some of the country’s most significant sporting events since 1922. Originally built as a venue for the annual Rose Bowl Game, this stadium has become a cultural landmark with a rich history in American sports and global events.

Its unique U-shaped bowl design gives it a classic look, while its capacity of nearly 93,000 makes it one of the largest stadiums in the U.S.

Beyond sports, the Rose Bowl has hosted major music concerts, including performances by artists like The Rolling Stones, U2, and Beyoncé. Each year, the stadium attracts tens of thousands of fans for the Rose Bowl Flea Market, one of the largest in the world.

Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the Rose Bowl continues to draw visitors not only for sports but for its place in American culture and history, making it an enduring symbol of American athletic and cultural events.

6. Cotton Bowl – Dallas, USA

The Cotton Bowl in Dallas is a historic stadium with a legacy that dates back to 1930. Known for hosting the annual Cotton Bowl Classic and the Red River Showdown between Texas and Oklahoma, the Cotton Bowl is a Texas icon and a beloved part of college football tradition. Over the years, the stadium has undergone several expansions to reach its current capacity of over 92,000 seats.

Aside from football, the Cotton Bowl has held legendary concerts, including Elvis Presley’s performance in 1956 and the Texxas Jam rock festival in the late 1970s. It remains a multi-use venue, continuing to host events from music festivals to international soccer games.

Despite the rise of modern stadiums in Texas, the Cotton Bowl’s history and its central role in some of college football’s biggest rivalries make it an irreplaceable part of Texas sports culture.

7. Wembley Stadium – London, UK

Wembley Stadium in London is one of the world’s most famous sports venues, instantly recognizable by its 133-meter-high arch, visible across the London skyline. The new Wembley, opened in 2007 on the site of the original 1923 stadium, serves as the home of English football and a premier location for global events.

With a capacity of 90,000, it is the largest stadium in the UK and the second-largest in Europe, hosting not only football but some of the biggest music concerts and cultural events.

@championsleague El Matador at Wembley 🇪🇸 #UCLfinal #Dortmund #RealMadrid #Nacho ♬ original sound – Champions League

Apart from football, Wembley has welcomed stars like Adele, Ed Sheeran, and Beyoncé, drawing crowds from all over for massive concerts. It also played a role in the 2012 Olympics, hosting football matches as part of the event.

Today, Wembley remains a symbol of British sports and entertainment, attracting millions of visitors annually and continuing to solidify its status as a landmark of London’s cultural landscape.

8. Gelora Bung Karno Stadium – Jakarta, Indonesia

Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, or GBK Stadium, stands as a major landmark in Jakarta and one of Southeast Asia’s largest stadiums. Built in 1962 as part of Indonesia’s preparation to host the Asian Games, the stadium has since been a hub for major events and national celebrations.

Named after Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, the stadium symbolizes Indonesia’s independence and pride. Its 88,000-seat capacity and unique circular design make it one of the most recognizable stadiums in Asia.

The stadium has hosted several key events, from the AFC Asian Cup to various Southeast Asian Games, as well as political rallies and state events. GBK has also welcomed international artists, including Guns N’ Roses and Coldplay, attracting massive audiences.

The stadium’s upgrades have reinforced its position as a national and regional icon, providing Jakarta with a venue that blends historical significance with modern enhancements.

9. Bukit Jalil National Stadium – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s pride, known for hosting regional and international sporting events. Built in 1998 for the Commonwealth Games, it quickly became the largest stadium in Southeast Asia, with an impressive capacity of over 87,000.

The stadium plays a key role in Malaysian sports, hosting major football matches and athletics events, and frequently drawing packed crowds.

In 2017, the stadium underwent a renovation in preparation for the Southeast Asian Games, adding energy-efficient lighting, an upgraded pitch, and additional facilities to modernize the space.

Bukit Jalil also frequently doubles as a concert venue, with international stars like Ed Sheeran and Jay Chou drawing massive crowds. Its versatility and size make it a core venue for Malaysia’s entertainment and sporting scene.

10. Borg El-Arab Stadium – Alexandria, Egypt

Borg El-Arab Stadium in Alexandria is Egypt’s second-largest stadium and one of the largest in Africa. Built to accommodate 86,000 fans, it is often used for high-profile football games, including Egyptian Premier League and CAF Champions League matches.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, its open-air design allows a coastal breeze to flow through, creating a comfortable atmosphere for attendees even during the hot season.

The venue is also designed with Egyptian culture in mind, incorporating design elements that reflect the country’s history and passion for football. Borg El-Arab’s strategic coastal location and extensive facilities make it an ideal spot for major events, including potential bids for larger international tournaments.

11. Salt Lake Stadium – Kolkata, India

Salt Lake Stadium, officially known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, is the largest stadium in India, with a seating capacity of 85,000. Located in Kolkata, this stadium is a mecca for Indian football fans and has hosted countless historic matches.

Its multi-tiered structure is designed to hold massive crowds, providing an intense, energetic atmosphere, especially during games between rival teams in the Indian Super League.

In addition to hosting the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017, Salt Lake Stadium frequently sees intense matches between Kolkata’s traditional rivals, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, which attract thousands of passionate fans.

The stadium’s legacy in Indian football is unmatched, and it continues to serve as the primary venue for national and international tournaments in India, solidifying Kolkata’s status as India’s football capital.

12. Santiago Bernabéu – Madrid, Spain

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, located in the heart of Madrid, is a football landmark and the home of Real Madrid, one of the world’s most famous clubs. Originally opened in 1947, this stadium has seen some of the greatest football moments and players, including Di Stefano, Zidane, and Ronaldo. It’s named after Santiago Bernabéu, a former Real Madrid president who transformed the club.

 

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Over the decades, this stadium has hosted four European Cup/Champions League Finals and numerous El Clásico matches against Barcelona, attracting global audiences. Its central role in football history and Real Madrid’s continued dominance make Santiago Bernabéu a must-see for sports fans visiting Madrid.

13. Stadium Australia – Sydney, Australia

Stadium Australia, also known as ANZ Stadium, is a versatile and iconic sports venue in Sydney. Built for the 2000 Olympics, it has hosted events ranging from rugby and cricket to concerts. Its unique design allows for configurable seating, accommodating different sports and large crowds.

Originally seating over 110,000, the stadium’s capacity was later reduced to improve sightlines and create a more intimate setting for spectators.

In recent years, the stadium has hosted the FIFA Women’s World Cup and other high-profile matches, along with concerts by global stars.

It remains a key venue in Australian sports and entertainment, consistently drawing massive crowds and solidifying its role in Sydney’s sporting landscape.

14. MetLife Stadium – New Jersey, USA

MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, serves as the home field for both the New York Giants and New York Jets, making it unique as a shared stadium for NFL teams.

Opened in 2010, MetLife Stadium is known for its modern design, complete with an exterior capable of changing colors to match the home team. With a seating capacity of 82,500, it’s one of the largest NFL stadiums in the United States.

Apart from football, MetLife has hosted various events like Copa America matches, concerts by artists such as Taylor Swift and BTS, and even WrestleMania, attracting fans from around the world.

Its flexible design and state-of-the-art facilities have made it a prime location for sports and entertainment, establishing it as a significant venue near New York City.

15. Croke Park – Dublin, Ireland

Croke Park is more than a stadium; it’s a cultural icon in Ireland. Known as the heart of Gaelic games, it has been hosting sports events since 1884. This stadium is the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) and has a storied history, particularly in relation to Irish independence.

Croke Park’s modernization in 2004 added a capacity of over 82,000 seats, making it one of Europe’s largest stadiums.

Croke Park was the site of “Bloody Sunday” in 1920 , when British forces opened fire during a Gaelic football match, killing 14 people. This tragic event remains a significant part of Irish history, adding emotional weight to the venue’s legacy.

Aside from Gaelic games, Croke Park has hosted major concerts featuring U2, Bruce Springsteen, and Beyoncé.

Its role expanded to other sports, including soccer and rugby, when Ireland’s national stadium, Lansdowne Road, underwent renovations. Croke Park is a symbol of Ireland’s cultural heritage, uniting sports, history, and music in one venue.

16. Jakarta International Stadium – Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) is Indonesia’s newest football venue, boasting a cutting-edge design and the country’s first retractable roof. Opened in 2022, the stadium offers seating for 82,000 fans and features a fully air-conditioned interior.

Located in North Jakarta, JIS is set to play a central role in promoting Indonesian football and attracting international tournaments to the region.

17. Signal Iduna Park – Dortmund, Germany

Signal Iduna Park, also known as Westfalenstadion, is the largest stadium in Germany and one of the most intimidating arenas in European football. Home to Borussia Dortmund, this stadium is known for its incredible atmosphere, particularly in the famous “Yellow Wall,” a massive standing section that holds 25,000 fans.

Opened in 1974, Signal Iduna Park has a capacity of over 81,000, making it a fortress for both home and international matches.

@bundesliga WOW! Describe the Yellow Wall with one word 😍 #bundesliga @bvb ♬ Originalton – Bundesliga

18. Stade de France – Paris, France

Stade de France, located just outside Paris, is France’s national stadium and one of the largest in Europe. Built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, it hosted the final where France claimed victory over Brazil, a memorable moment in French sports history.

With its flexible design, the stadium accommodates both football and rugby by retracting its lower stands, making it one of the few stadiums worldwide that adapts to different sports configurations.

Since its opening, Stade de France has hosted major events, including the Rugby World Cup and UEFA Champions League Finals, showcasing France on the global stage.

It remains an essential part of Paris’s sports and entertainment scene, representing French pride and national achievement.

19. Luzhniki Stadium – Moscow, Russia

Luzhniki Stadium is Moscow’s most iconic sports venue and the largest in Russia. Opened in 1956, it was built during the Soviet era and has since undergone multiple renovations, most recently for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Known for hosting high-profile events, Luzhniki Stadium witnessed the 1980 Olympics and the 2018 World Cup Final, where France emerged victorious over Croatia.

Beyond football, Luzhniki has hosted major concerts by artists like Michael Jackson and Metallica. With its monumental Soviet architecture and deep historical roots, the stadium is a key fixture in Moscow’s sporting and cultural identity, symbolizing the city’s global influence.

20. Shah Alam Stadium – Selangor, Malaysia

Shah Alam Stadium, located in Selangor, Malaysia, is renowned for its unique roof design and is among the largest stadiums in Southeast Asia. Opened in 1994, it features a distinct curved roof that partially covers the stands, providing shade and comfort for spectators, a necessity in Malaysia’s tropical climate.

Primarily used for football, it’s home to the Selangor FC team and hosts major national tournaments.

21. Estadio Monumental – Lima, Peru

Estadio Monumental in Lima is the largest stadium in Peru and one of the largest in South America. Opened in 2000, it serves as the home ground for Universitario de Deportes, one of Peru’s top football clubs.

The stadium’s design includes towering stands that create an intense atmosphere, especially during big games, making it a fortress for the home team.

The stadium is also known for its rowdy fanbase, especially in the “Trinchera Norte” section, where Universitario’s most passionate supporters create an electrifying atmosphere. In addition to hosting national league matches, Estadio Monumental has been a key venue for Copa Libertadores games and other international events.

22. Maracanã Stadium – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Maracanã Stadium is a legendary venue in Rio de Janeiro and an icon of Brazilian football. Originally built for the 1950 FIFA World Cup, it has since undergone renovations, including updates for the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics.

Maracanã’s iconic design and history make it a sacred place for football fans worldwide, with many considering it the heart of Brazilian sports culture.

Beyond football, Maracanã has hosted concerts by Paul McCartney, Madonna, and many other international artists. It’s the site of historic moments, like the 2016 Olympic opening ceremony and Pelé’s 1,000th career goal.

The 2014 World Cup in Brazil had everything: pure joy, heartbreak, and those jaw-dropping moments that fans would talk about for years. Held in twelve cities, it turned the whole country into a giant stadium.

Brazil, a place where football pulses through everyday life, saw streets become impromptu fan zones with massive screens set up along Copacabana Beach and in the neighborhoods of Rio, São Paulo (largest city in South America), and Salvador.

People poured out of every corner, not just for the big games, but for every game, fueling an atmosphere that felt like one endless, nationwide block party. Then there were the unforgettable scenes. No one could have predicted the Germany-Brazil semi-final, 7-1 in Brazil’s own backyard.

It was a crushing blow for a country that lives and breathes football, turning a stadium of Brazilian fans into a silent crowd as goal after goal went in. But alongside that heartbreak came the breakout stars, like Colombia’s James Rodríguez, whose ridiculous volley against Uruguay secured him the Golden Boot and instant global fame.

Germany’s win over Argentina in the final gave us the first European team to lift the trophy on South American soil, while fans who traveled the country came away with memories not just of the matches but of Brazil itself, its music, beaches, and people, food…

All woven into an unforgettable month that was way more than just a tournament.

FAQs

Why was the seating capacity of the Maracanã Stadium reduced?

Maracanã Stadium’s capacity was reduced due to updated safety regulations and the need for modernization. Originally, it could host nearly 200,000 people, but renovations to meet international standards lowered the official capacity to 78,838, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for fans.

Which stadium has hosted the most FIFA World Cup Finals?

Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca holds the record, having hosted the World Cup Final twice, in 1970 and 1986. However, Maracanã Stadium in Brazil hosted two significant finals—1950’s unofficial “final” match in the round-robin format and the official final in 2014.

What is the “Yellow Wall” at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund?

The “Yellow Wall” is the nickname for the south terrace at Signal Iduna Park, where Borussia Dortmund fans create one of the most intense fan atmospheres in world football.

This standing area, holding 25,000 fans, is famous for choreographed displays, songs, and even setting noise records, often exceeding 130 decibels.

Why do Brazilian fans consider the Maracanã Stadium sacred?

For Brazilian fans, Maracanã Stadium is much more than a sports venue; it’s the spiritual home of Brazilian football. Since hosting the devastating 1950 World Cup loss, known as the “Maracanazo,” the stadium has become symbolic of the nation’s passion, resilience, and unmatched love for football. I

conic events like Pelé’s 1,000th goal have further cemented its status in football history.

What is the history behind the “Bloody Sunday” tragedy at Croke Park in Dublin?

On November 21, 1920, during Ireland’s War of Independence, British forces opened fire at a Gaelic football match at Croke Park, killing 14 civilians. This day, known as “Bloody Sunday,” is commemorated annually, making Croke Park not only a sports venue but also a symbol of Irish resilience and national identity.

What’s unique about Bukit Jalil Stadium?

Bukit Jalil’s open-air design features natural ventilation, which helps regulate temperature in Malaysia’s tropical heat. Its tiered seating structure also minimizes direct sunlight exposure for spectators, making it one of the most comfortable large stadiums in Southeast Asia.

Why is Croke Park restricted to Gaelic games and only occasionally opens for international sports?

Croke Park is primarily dedicated to Gaelic games due to its historical ties to the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). While it has hosted events like rugby and soccer, the GAA reserves it for Gaelic sports, maintaining its role as a cultural hub for Irish athletic traditions.

Last Words

For football fans, stepping into any of these stadiums is like entering sacred ground. The energy, the traditions, and the unmistakable roar of tens of thousands all create a place where passion for the game lives on.

So, whether you’re visiting for the love of the sport, the architecture, or just to feel that electrifying atmosphere, these stadiums are waiting to welcome you to something truly legendary.