In the 21st century, we have seen a trend of football stadiums with ever-rising capacities, thanks largely to the expansion of the game beyond Europe and South America.
The size increase typically comes with a heightening of grandeur in other areas too, modern arenas boasting luxurious hospitality and first-class technological advancements. But which are the 9 biggest football stadiums in the world?
Top 9 Biggest Football Stadiums In The World
9. Borg el-Arab (86,000)
The Borg El Arab Stadium, sometimes called the Egyptian Army Stadium or El Geish Stadium is located in the Egyptian city of Alexandria and opened back in 2009. It remains the third largest stadium in Africa with a capacity of 86,000.
The venue features an enormous running track around the perimeter of its pitch and four huge floodlights. The stadium is fully air-conditioned and incorporates an airstrip and hotel for 200 guests.
8. Bukit Jalil National Stadium (87,411)
The Bukit Jalil is based in the Malaysian Capital of Kuala Lumpur, has a capacity of 87,411 and is the second-largest football stadium in Asia. It opened in July 1998 ahead of the Commonwealth Games and staged its opening ceremony.
The stadium has also hosted other international multi-sport events including the 2001 and 2017 Southeast Asian Games alongside athletic events or music concerts. Today, Malaysian international football matches are played at the Bukit Jalil, including competition finals such as the Malaysia FA Cup or Malaysia Cup.
7. Estadio Azteca (87,523)
Originally constructed in 1910, the Estadio Azteca plays host to both the Mexican national team and Club America matches. It is located in Coyoacan of Mexico City with a capacity of 87,523 and is the largest football stadium in North America.
Its record attendance however is actually around 119,853, watched by an immense crowd for a match between Mexico and Brazil. The Estadio Azteca also witnessed Diego Maradona score twice including his ‘hand of god’ goal versus England during the 1986 World Cup.
6. Lusail Stadium (88,966)
Lusail Stadium is the largest stadium in Qatar and the biggest in the Middle East with a capacity of 88,966. It was one of eight arenas purpose-built for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It is currently the third largest football stadium in Asia but there are plans to eventually reduce its current capacity to 40,000.
The stadium most famously hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup final game between Argentina and France which saw both Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi battle for glory with Argentina crowned World Champions.
5. Wembley Stadium (90,000)
In 2007, Wembley Stadium was completely renovated at a cost of £790 million! Dubbed the
“Home of Football.” The venue has hosted England national team games and English Cup finals for over a century.
The stadium’s cutting-edge nature makes it ideal for multi-purpose use and a diverse range
of events like concerts. When packed to the rafters with football fans, Wembley has an incredible atmosphere and its striking Arch is already an iconic symbol.
4. New Administrative Capital Stadium (93,940)
Commonly known as the New Administrative Capital Stadium, Misr Stadium is based within
Egypt's Olympic Sports City. Boasting a gigantic capacity of 93,940 supporters, it remains
the second largest stadium in Africa.
The structure has a range of impressive features including a training ground, two indoor
arenas and an Olympic-size swimming pool. The New Administrative Capital Stadium was
constructed with Egypt’s possible bids for both the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cup in
mind.
3. FNB Stadium (94,736)
Typically known as either the FNB Stadium or ‘Soccer City,’ the First National Bank Stadium is the home to club side Kaizer Chiefs and the South African national football team.
Designed as the central showpiece for 2010’s FIFA World Cup, the FNB Stadium was the
largest stadium in Africa at the time with an enormous capacity of 94,736. It was chosen to host the tournament’s final between the Netherlands and Spain. The FNB Stadium also saw Nelson Mandela's first speech in Johannesburg following his release from prison in 1990.
2. Camp Nou (105,000)
Renovation of Camp Nou commenced after the close of the 2022-23 season and is due for
completion in June 2026. The stadium has been home to La Liga side Barcelona since opening in 1957. It has also housed numerous big footballing occasions including two European Cup finals and five matches at the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
The planned increase in seating capacity will see the stadium accommodate a whopping
105,000 supporters on its reopening. Camp Nou is set to become the largest stadium in both
Spain, Europe and also the second-largest football arena on the planet.
1. Rungrado 1st Of May Stadium (114,000)
Opened in May 1989, the Rungrado 1st of May Stadium is a multi-purpose sporting
venue based in the North Korean Capital of Pyongyang. Playing host to the Korea DPR national team, it is the largest football stadium in the world with a capacity of 114,000!
The stadium has been previously used for select athletics events and the games of the Arirang Festival. Its distinctive roof design features sixteen individual arches arranged in a ring pattern which is said to represent a magnolia blossom.
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