What are the Largest Stadiums In South Africa Today? As we embark on a thrilling journey through the heart of South Africa’s sports and entertainment culture; you’ll learn all about the Largest Stadiums In South Africa.
These iconic structures not only represent architectural brilliance but also hold a special place in the hearts of millions.
Let’s explore the colossal arenas that echo with cheers and celebrate the spirit of unity.
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Table Summary of the Largest Stadiums in South Africa
| Rank | Stadium | Capacity | City | Province |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soccer City | 94,736 | Johannesburg | Gauteng |
| 2 | Ellis Park Stadium | 62,567 | Johannesburg | Gauteng |
| 3 | Odi Stadium | 60,000 | Mabopane | Gauteng |
| 4 | Phakisa Freeway | 60,000 | Welkom | Free State |
| 5 | Mmabatho Stadium | 59,000 | Mahikeng | North West |
| 6 | Cape Town Stadium | 55,000 | Cape Town | Western Cape |
| 7 | Moses Mabhida Stadium | 54,000 | Durban | KwaZulu-Natal |
| 8 | Kings Park Stadium | 52,000 | Durban | KwaZulu-Natal |
| 9 | Loftus Versfeld Stadium | 51,762 | Pretoria | Gauteng |
| 10 | Newlands Stadium | 51,100 | Cape Town | Western Cape |
| 11 | Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium | 48,459 | Port Elizabeth | Eastern Cape |
| 12 | Royal Bafokeng Stadium | 42,000 | Rustenburg | North West |
| 13 | Peter Mokaba Stadium | 41,733 | Polokwane | Limpopo |
| 14 | Mbombela Stadium | 40,929 | Nelspruit | Mpumalanga |
| 15 | Free State Stadium | 40,911 | Bloemfontein | Free State |
| 16 | Orlando Stadium | 40,000 | Soweto | Gauteng |
| 17 | Johannesburg Stadium | 37,500 | Johannesburg | Gauteng |
| 18 | Charles Mopeli Stadium | 35,000 | Phuthaditjhaba | Free State |
| 19 | Wanderers Stadium | 34,000 | Johannesburg | Gauteng |
| 20 | EPRU Stadium | 33,852 | Port Elizabeth | Eastern Cape |
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Top 3 Largest Stadiums in South Africa
If you check the table above, you’ll see that there are about 20 listed stadiums in South Africa; however, here are the top three (3) Largest Stadiums in South Africa today.
#1. Soccer City
As the flagship stadium of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Soccer City captured the world’s attention with its unique design and vibrant atmosphere.
The No. 1 largest stadium in South Africa is Soccer City, located in Johannesburg. This venue, also known as First National Bank Stadium, has a seating capacity of 94,736.
Its construction began in 1986 and was completed in 1989 at a cost of around $440 million. The architects in charge of this project were Boogertman & Partners and Populous (then HOK Sport), who designed the outside of the stadium to resemble a traditional African cooking pot.
The lights running along the bottom of the outside are made to look like a cooking fire. One of the most famous events held here was in 1990 when Nelson Mandela gave his first speech after being released from prison.
In 2010, Soccer City hosted the FIFA World Cup soccer tournament.
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#2. Ellis Park Stadium
The Ellis Park Stadium is located in Johannesburg and is the second-largest stadium in South Africa. This venue, also known as Emirates Airline Park, has a capacity of 62,567 visitors.
Construction of the Ellis Park Stadium began in 1927 and was finished in 1928 at a cost of approximately $3.1 million. It underwent renovation in 20009 which increased its number of seats to the current amount.
It has been most famous as a stadium for rugby since it was initiated by, planned, and built for the Transvaal Rugby Football Union.
The Ellis Park Stadium has also hosted soccer matches and cricket games as well as several famous concerts, including Whitney Houston (1994), Roxette (1995), Rolling Stones (1995), and Eminem (2014).
On April 11, 2001, a stampede took place during a soccer game, causing 43 deaths and going down in South African history as the country’s worst stadium disaster.
#3. Odi Stadium
The Odi Stadium is located in Mabopane and is the third largest stadium in South Africa today. This stadium has a seating capacity of 60,000.
It was built in the late 1980s as a multi-purpose sporting arena, with facilities for the following events: soccer, running track, tennis, volleyball, long jump, hammer throw, javelin throw, and other field events.
It is most commonly known as a soccer stadium and has served as the home field for the Garankuwa United soccer team. Today, this stadium also offers visitors a clubhouse, caretaker house, press room, VIP seating, and soccer training grounds.
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FAQs
What is the Architectural Significance of Moses Mabhida Stadium?
The arch, with its SkyCar ride and breathtaking views, symbolizes the rise of South Africa as a modern and progressive society.
Can Cape Town Stadium Host Events Other Than Sports?
Why is Ellis Park Stadium Significant in Rugby History?
The stadium’s electrifying atmosphere and historical importance make it a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.
What Events Have Taken Place at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium?
It reflects the spirit of Nelson Mandela by promoting unity and inclusivity through various cultural celebrations.
How Does Loftus Versfeld Stadium Contribute to Local Sporting Culture?
Whether it’s rugby or football, the stadium creates an electric atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and pride.
Conclusion
In concluding our exploration of the Largest Stadiums In South Africa, we’ve uncovered not just architectural marvels but cultural symbols that unite a nation. From the historic FNB Stadium to the modern Moses Mabhida Stadium, each venue tells a unique story.
These stadiums transcend their roles as mere sports arenas; they are living monuments that capture the spirit and identity of South Africa.
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