CLAIM: FNB is the biggest stadium in Africa
SOURCE: Social Media
VERDICT: True
Africa, a continent renowned for its vibrant cultures, diverse landscapes, and rich history, is also home to some of the world’s most stunning stadiums. From the iconic arenas that have hosted historic matches to the modern masterpieces that stand as architectural marvels, Africa’s stadiums offer a glimpse into the continent’s passion for sports and its commitment to progress.
But when it comes to size, which one takes the cup?
Questions have been asked following news of American artist Chris Brown’s Johannesburg concert at the FNB Stadium selling out.
Chris Brown’s Instagram page posted that, ‘Chris Brown sold out the largest stadium in Africa in just 2 hours’.
Apart from claims that the FNB Stadium is the biggest in Africa, other claims were that it is also in the top 3 of the world’s biggest stadia here: ‘South Africa not Africa. Ande it’s the THIRD largest stadium in the WORLD. Respect us’ and here: ‘3rd Largest Stadium in the World not limited to Africa’.
Then there were some who did not even believe that it is Africa’s largest; ‘did they expand the stadium or something cause i could’ve sworn the one in cairo was the biggest not too long ago’ and here, ‘Woah now, I’m a fan but that’s not the biggest stadium in Africa’.
The FNB Stadium
The stadium is also known as Soccer City and The Calabash (due to its shape). It is located in Nasrec, South Africa. After its renovation and expansion in 2009 in readiness for the 2010 World Cup, it now has a capacity of 94,736.
The stadium is the home ground of Kaizer Chiefs and fixtures for the South African national team. FNB Stadium has also hosted some South Africa international rugby matches.
The biggest match to be played at the FNB Stadium was the FIFA World Cup final in 2010. Spain played the Netherlands, with Andres Iniesta scoring the winner in extra-time in front of a capacity crowd.
The FNB Stadium derives its name from sponsorship by the First National Bank.
In the soccer world, this stadium is ranked fifth in the world.
Comparison
A close second is the newly built New Administrative Capital Stadium in Egypt. It is the second largest in Africa, boasting a capacity of 93,940. This facility was completed in 2023 and became Egypt’s national stadium shortly thereafter.
Its construction was part of a broader initiative to enhance the country’s sporting infrastructure, potentially setting the stage for future World Cup bids. Its inaugural match in March 2024 marked a new chapter in Egyptian football history.
In Africa, Egypt has the honour of having 3 of Africa’s 5 largest stadiums.
Here are the top 10 largest stadiums in the world and their capacities, according to the International Olympic Committee and official seating records:
- Rungrado 1st of May Stadium (Pyongyang, North Korea): 150,000
- Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad, India): 132,000
- Michigan Stadium (Michigan, U.S.): 107,601
- Beaver Stadium (Pennsylvania, U.S.): 106,572
- Ohio Stadium (Ohio, U.S.): 102,780
- Kyle Field (Texas, U.S.): 102,733
- Tiger Stadium (Louisiana, U.S.): 102,321
- Neyland Stadium (Tennessee, U.S.): 101,915
- Bryant-Denny Stadium (Alabama, U.S.): 101,821
- Darrel K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (Texas, U.S.): 100,119
Conclusion
Indeed, the FNB stadium is the biggest in Africa. It has been since 2009 when it was renovated ahead of the 2010 World Cup. A close second on the continent is Egypt’s New Administrative Capital Stadium. The Borg el-Arab Stadium – Egypt – 86,000, Stade des Martyrs – Democratic Republic of Congo – 80,000 and Cairo International Stadium – Egypt – 75,000, make up the top 5.
