Asia is home to some of the most impressive stadiums in the world, reflecting the region’s passion for sports and grand architectural achievements. From hosting international tournaments to being the home ground for local clubs, these stadiums showcase both modern design and massive capacities.
Here are the 10 most legendary stadiums in Asia.
1. Rungrado 1st of May Stadium (Pyongyang, North Korea)
The Rungrado 1st of May Stadium is the largest stadium in the world by seating capacity, holding up to 114,000 spectators. Located in Pyongyang, North Korea, this stadium is primarily used for soccer matches, athletics events, and the famous Mass Games. Its unique design features a scalloped roof resembling a magnolia blossom.
2. Salt Lake Stadium (Kolkata, India)
Officially known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata is the second-largest stadium in India, with a seating capacity of 85,000. This multi-purpose stadium is primarily used for football and athletics. It has hosted numerous important matches, including FIFA U-17 World Cup games and the final of the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
3. Bukit Jalil National Stadium (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
Bukit Jalil National Stadium, located in Kuala Lumpur, is the largest stadium in Malaysia with a capacity of 87,411 seats. It is part of the National Sports Complex and has hosted many significant events, including the Commonwealth Games in 1998, the Southeast Asian Games, and numerous football matches.
4. Azadi Stadium (Tehran, Iran)
Azadi Stadium in Tehran is the largest stadium in Iran, with a capacity of 78,116 spectators. It serves as the home ground for the Iran national football team and two prominent Tehran clubs, Esteghlal and Persepolis. The stadium has hosted numerous important matches, including World Cup qualifiers and AFC Champions League finals.
5. Beijing National Stadium (Beijing, China)
Also known as the “Bird’s Nest,” Beijing National Stadium is an architectural marvel with a seating capacity of 80,000. Built for the 2008 Summer Olympics, it has become a landmark in Beijing. The stadium hosts various sports events and concerts and will be a key venue for the 2022 Winter Olympics.
6. Sapporo Dome (Sapporo, Japan)
Sapporo Dome in Japan is a unique stadium with a seating capacity of 41,484. It features a retractable surface that allows it to host both football and baseball games. The dome hosted matches during the 2002 FIFA World Cup and will be used for the upcoming 2020 Summer Olympics football tournament.
7. Rajamangala National Stadium (Bangkok, Thailand)
Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok is the largest stadium in Thailand, with a seating capacity of 51,552. It is primarily used for football and athletics events and serves as the home ground for the Thailand national football team. The stadium has hosted numerous international matches and concerts.
8. Jamsil Olympic Stadium (Seoul, South Korea)
Jamsil Olympic Stadium in Seoul was built for the 1988 Summer Olympics and has a seating capacity of 69,950. It is part of the larger Jamsil Sports Complex and hosts various sports events, including football and athletics. The stadium is also a popular venue for concerts and cultural events.
9. King Fahd International Stadium (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
King Fahd International Stadium, also known as “The Pearl of Stadiums,” is located in Riyadh and has a seating capacity of 68,752. It is primarily used for football matches and is the home ground for the Saudi Arabia national football team. The stadium has hosted numerous important matches, including the Gulf Cup of Nations and the AFC Champions League finals.
10. Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (Jakarta, Indonesia)
Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta is one of the largest stadiums in Indonesia, with a seating capacity of 77,193. Named after Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, the stadium is a multi-purpose venue used primarily for football. It has hosted the Asian Games, Southeast Asian Games, and numerous international football matches.Gelora Bung Karno Stadium
