South Africa is a country with a rich soccer culture, from the local club games to the national team matches. With this passion comes a rich history of soccer stadiums, each with its own unique story and character.
SA boasts some of the best soccer stadiums on the African continent. Whether you are a local or an international tourist, visiting these stadiums is a great way to experience the passion and excitement of soccer in South Africa.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of the best soccer stadiums to visit in South Africa.
Top South African Soccer Stadiums
1. FNB Stadium (Soccer City)
Located in Johannesburg, FNB Stadium is one of the most iconic soccer stadiums in South Africa. The stadium was built in 1987 and underwent major renovations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which was held in South Africa. It has a capacity of 94,736 seats, making it the largest stadium in Africa. FNB Stadium was the main stadium for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and hosted the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as the final match. The stadium is also known as Soccer City due to its unique design resembling an African pot, and it is the home ground of the Kaizer Chiefs Football Club.
2. Cape Town Stadium (DHL Stadium)
The Cape Town Stadium, located in Green Point, Cape Town, is a multipurpose stadium built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The stadium has a capacity of 55,000 seats and boasts stunning views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. The stadium’s design is unique, with its shape resembling a bowl. It inspired by the surrounding mountains and the ocean, and its location offers stunning views of both.
The stadium’s most unique feature is its movable roof, which can be opened and closed depending on the weather conditions. The Cape Town Stadium is home to the Cape Town City Football Club and has also hosted various international concerts and events.
3. Moses Mabhida Stadium
Moses Mabhida Stadium, located in Durban, is one of the most recognizable stadiums in South Africa. It was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and has a capacity of 56,000 seats. The stadium is named after Moses Mabhida, a political activist and leader in the African National Congress during the apartheid era. Moses Mabhida Stadium has a unique arch design that spans the length of the stadium and offers panoramic views of Durban city. Visitors can take a ride on the SkyCar to the top of the arch and enjoy breath-taking views of the city and the Indian Ocean.
4. Loftus Versfeld Stadium
Loftus Versfeld Stadium, located in Pretoria, is one of the oldest soccer stadiums in South Africa. It was built in 1906 and has a capacity of 51,762 seats. The stadium is home to the Blue Bulls rugby team, but it is also a popular venue for soccer matches. The stadium has a long and rich history, having hosted many major sporting events, including matches of the 1995 Rugby World Cup, 2010 FIFA World Cup, as well as concerts and other events. The stadium was originally built in 1906 and has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades over the years to improve its facilities and accommodate larger crowds.
5. Orlando Stadium
Orlando Stadium, located in Soweto, Johannesburg, is one of the oldest soccer stadiums in South Africa. It was built in 1959 and has since undergone several renovations and upgrades to become a modern sports facility. The stadium has a seating capacity of 37,139 and is home to Orlando Pirates Football Club, one of the most successful football teams in South Africa. In addition to football, Orlando Stadium has also hosted various other sporting events, including boxing, wrestling, and rugby. It has also been used for music concerts, festivals, and other cultural events, making it a versatile venue for a range of different activities.
South Africa’s passion for soccer is reflected in the quality and diversity of its stadiums. From the iconic FNB Stadium to the stunning Cape Town Stadium, each venue has its own unique character and history. These stadiums not only serve as homes to some of the country’s most successful football teams but also offer visitors an opportunity to experience the excitement and passion of soccer in South Africa. Whether you are a local or international tourist, a visit to one of these stadiums is sure to be an unforgettable experience.