Creating a list of the 10 best stadiums in the Balkans involves considering various factors such as capacity, facilities, historical significance, and fan atmosphere. Here’s a list of some of the top stadiums in the Balkan region:
10 Stadio Toumba
Location: Thessaloniki, Greece
Capacity: 28,703
Home Team: PAOK FC
Notable For: Famous for its intense atmosphere and dedicated fan base.
9 Karadjordje Stadium
Location: Novi Sad, Serbia
Capacity: 14,458
Home Team: Vojvodina Novi Sad
Notable For: A historic stadium known for hosting numerous important matches in Serbian football.
8 Karaiskakis Stadium
Location: Athens, Greece
Capacity: 33,079
Home Team: Olympiacos F.C.
Notable For: Known for its passionate supporters and historic significance.
7 Arena Națională
Location: Bucharest, Romania
Capacity: 55,634
Home Team: Romanian National Team, FCSB
Notable For: The largest stadium in Romania, hosting major events including UEFA competitions.
6 Stadionul Ion Oblemenco
Location: Craiova, Romania
Capacity: 30,929
Home Team: CS Universitatea Craiova
Notable For: Modern stadium with excellent facilities and a great atmosphere.
5 Air Albania
Location: Tirana, Albania
Capacity: 22,000
Home Team: Albanian National Team
Notable For: The electrifying atmosphere when the Albanian national football team plays.
4 Stadion Poljud
Location: Split, Croatia
Capacity: 34,198
Home Team: Hajduk Split
Notable For: Famous for its unique design and vibrant atmosphere.
3 Puskás Aréna
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Capacity: 67,215
Home Team: Hungarian National Team
Notable For: A modern stadium hosting various international events.
2 Maksimir Stadium
Location: Zagreb, Croatia
Capacity: 35,123
Home Team: Dinamo Zagreb
Notable For: Historic venue hosting both club and national team matches.
1 Marakana (Rajko Mitić Stadium)
Location: Belgrade, Serbia
Capacity: 55,538
Home Team: Red Star Belgrade
Notable For: One of the largest stadiums in the Balkans, known for its passionate atmosphere during matches.
The idea of organizing a European or World Championship in the Balkan region is promising and could bring numerous benefits. However, it requires careful planning, significant investment, and strong regional cooperation to address the various challenges. If these hurdles can be overcome, such an event could leave a lasting positive legacy for the Balkan region.