sports

The 6 Biggest Stadiums in the World Outside of the United States

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Published Aug 21, 2023

So, you're wondering what the biggest stadiums in the world are? Let's get in to it!

Huge stadiums and sporting venues often tend to be so much more than the site of games, matches, concerts, or whatever cultural moment is taking place there. For many cities, their stadium is a part of their identity and a piece of their infrastructure that represents their greater community.

As highlighted in a previous article, many of the biggest stadiums in the world are located in the United States at major universities. Across the globe, however, there are many stadiums that have significant history and meaning for their nations’ cultural values.

Here are the biggest stadiums in the world, outside of the United States:

1. Narendra Modi Stadium

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Spectators: 132,000
Location: Ahmedabad, India
Established: 1982

Nothing represents India’s passion for cricket quite like the behemoth that is Narendra Modi Stadium. The stadium can fit up to a whopping 132,000 fans and is located in Ahmedabad, India. Narendra Modi was formerly known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, but was renamed in 2020.

The stadium boasts a state-of-the-art design and that makes for an electrifying atmosphere for cricket enthusiasts. Both domestic and international matches take place at Narendra Modi.

The stadium's innovative architecture and modern facilities are a reflection of India's aspirations to be a country of excellence in sports on the global stage.

2. Rungrado 1st Of May Stadium

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Spectators: 114,000
Location: Pyongyang, North Korea
Established: 1989

The Rungrado 1st of May Stadium is located in Pyongyang, North Korea. The sporting venue is a massively important cultural landmark for North Korea. It is called the ‘1st of May’ in honor of International Workers' Day.

The stadium can accommodate 114,000 spectators and is primarily used for national events and soccer matches. Its architecture showcases the nation's commitment to innovation; Rungrado is a monumental venue that is a unique representation of the nation's cultural identity.

3. Melbourne Cricket Ground

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Spectators: 100,024
Location: Yarra Park, Melbourne
Established: 1853

The Melbourne Cricket Ground is an iconic symbol in Australia. It is often referred to as the “G” and is located in Yarra Park, Melbourne. The seating capacity at the “G” exceeds 100,000 spectators, making it the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground hosts a wide array of major sporting events, including cricket, Australian football, soccer, and more. The MCG is also a cultural hub, having hosted concerts, ceremonies, and other cultural moments. The Melbourne Cricket Ground is a cherished institution that is monumental in Australia.

4. Camp Nou

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Spectators: 99,354
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Established: 1957

Camp Nou, home of the iconic FC Barcelona situated in Barcelona, is a mecca of football in Spain and a representation of the importance of the sport in the nation. With a capacity exceeding 99,000, Camp Nou creates an absolutely electric atmosphere for spectators. The venue has witnessed many iconic moments and is among the most historic places in the world for European football.

Camp Nou is uniquely designed, specifically with its towering tiers and steep stands that help to load many spectators in. The stadium is a cultural landmark for Spain that boasts one of the most entertaining viewing experiences for fans who come to cheer their team on.

5. FNB Stadium

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Spectators: 94,736
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Established: 1989

Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, FNB Stadium stands as a huge landmark for the nation of football lovers. FNB is often referred to as "Soccer City" because of its importance as a football hub.

FNB hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup final, which was a huge moment for the stadium and the nation. The stadium is one of the largest venues in Africa, and it hosts not only football matches but also many other large cultural events such as concerts, political gatherings, and more. It is uniquely designed in a pot-like shape that is inspired by African pottery, and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the continent. FNB Stadium has played a huge role in the nation's transformation over the past several decades and it continues to be a representation of the passion and community within the nation.

6. Wembley Stadium

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Spectators: 90,000
Location: London, England
Established: 2007

The iconic Wembley Stadium, located in London, England, is a massively important part of British culture and the tradition of British sports. Sometimes referred to as the "Home of Football," this legendary venue has witnessed many historic football moments and cultural events in its existence.

With a capacity exceeding 90,000 spectators, Wembley's huge arch stands out among the London skyline. Beyond football, the stadium hosts concerts, rugby matches, and in 2012, even the Olympic Games. Wembley Stadium is a cherished landmark not only in London, but for sports lovers around the globe.