Here at South Stadium, can you hear the echoes of roaring crowds? This is not just a stadium. This is Shanghai Stadium, a stage for dreams, a battleground for athletes. It stands as a testament to Shanghai’s sporting spirit.
Shanghai Stadium opened its doors in 1997. It was built for the Eighth National Games of China. Imagine the excitement. The entire nation turned its eyes to Shanghai. The stadium was the centerpiece of this grand event.
Did you know it was nearly named differently? Initial plans envisioned a capacity for 80000 spectators. The slogan ‘Stadium of Eighty Thousand’ stuck despite the final capacity being lower. It’s an unofficial nickname that many still use today.
For a long time, Shanghai Stadium had a running track. This made it a versatile venue. It hosted athletics events, including the prestigious Diamond League series from 2010 to 2019. The Shanghai Marathon also ended here.
But change was on the horizon. Between 2020 and 2022, Shanghai Stadium underwent a major transformation. The running track was removed. The stadium was converted into a football-specific arena.
Why the change? The original plan was to prepare for the 2021 Club World Cup. Although the tournament did not happen in China, the redevelopment was completed. The stadium was ready at the end of 2022. It was officially reopened on April 16, 2023.
The renovation also included extending the roof. A panoramic multimedia screen was installed underneath. Two giant screens were added above the goals. The stadium now holds 72000 spectators.
Consider the teams that have called this place home. Shanghai Shenhua has been a tenant since 2023 and also played here in 1998. Shanghai SIPG played here from 2009 to 2019. Shanghai COSCO also played here from 2001 to 2005.
Shanghai Stadium also hosted international events. In 2008, it hosted football preliminaries for the Summer Olympics. The opening ceremony of the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games took place here. In 2015, Juventus played Lazio in the Italian Super Cup here. Juventus won 2:0.
Getting here is easy. You can take Line 4 of the Shanghai Metro. Get off at Shanghai Stadium Station or Shanghai Indoor Stadium Station. Public transport makes it very accessible.
As you stand here at Shanghai Stadium, remember its history. It is a place where sporting dreams have been realized. It is a symbol of Shanghai’s commitment to sports and competition. Feel the energy. It’s a stadium that has been renewed and continues to inspire.