World’s greatest soccer stadium nearly double Arsenal’s in beautiful new pics
Plans are in full swing to ensure the 2030 World Cup is a game-changer, with a stadium that will outshine any other currently in existence.
Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay are set to share the hosting responsibilities for the world’s largest sporting event after the United States, Canada and Mexico take their turn in 2026. And organisers are pulling out all the stops to make a lasting impact, with plans for a new record-breaking venue.
This comes as the first images have been unveiled of the Grand Stade Hassan II, a colossal 115,000-seat stadium slated for construction just outside Casablanca, Morocco. Set to open its doors in 2028, this revolutionary site will be able to accommodate nearly double the number of spectators as Arsenal‘s Emirates Stadium, which currently has a capacity of approximately 60,700.
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To give a sense of the project’s scale compared to other Premier League stadia, both Anfield and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium also have capacities slightly over the 60,000 mark. Even Old Trafford – the largest ground in England’s top flight – will see its 74,000-seat maximum overshadowed by the Grand Stade Hassan II.
The project is a collaborative effort between French architects Oualalou + Choi and renowned stadium designers Populous, who are hoping the site can host the 2030 World Cup final. With the release of the first concept images of the ground, hopes are higher than ever that it will receive the go-ahead, reported The Mirror.
The Grand Stade Hassan II, inspired by the moussem – traditional Moroccan gatherings hosting many tribes – is set to feature a sprawling aluminium lattice exterior. It will also comprise two ends accommodating 29,500 fans each, set amidst the Moroccan landscape.
“The Grand Stade Hassan II will provide extraordinary spaces that create exceptional experiences for every fan and every visitor,” said Populous lead architect Francois Clement. “It is a cornerstone of King Mohammed VI’s vision to develop Morocco’s football infrastructure that will elevate Morocco to the highest global platform of sporting infrastructure development.”
The design also includes plans for several elevated gardens suspended 28 metres above ground level. Besides the Moroccan national team, Raja Casablanca and Wydad will also call the venue home after the World Cup.
The stadium’s plans were first confirmed in October 2023, but only now have the first images been revealed. Populous, known for designing both the new Wembley and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, has a reputation for creating visually striking and multi-functional marvels.
Christopher Lee, managing director for Populous’ projects in Africa, Europe and the Middle East, couldn’t hide his pride as he gushed: “We are very proud to work alongside our partners Oualalou + Choi on this incredible project. The Grand Stade Hassan II will be a truly iconic, landmark venue for Morocco and for football itself, that will become one of the great stadia of the world.”
