FNB Stadium - Nasrec, Johannesburg
FNB Stadium - Nasrec, Johannesburg
Built in preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup which was hosted in South Africa, Soccer City or FNB Stadium was completed on the 21st of October 2009. Located in Nasrec, Johannesburg, adjacent to the Johannesburg Expo Centre, the stadium is the largest stadium in Africa and fifth largest in the world, with a seating capacity of almost 95 000.
Although the stadium was not built from the floor up, the original building underwent a major upgrade for the World Cup, with a new design inspired by the shape of an African pot called a calabash, this lending itself to the buildings nickname, The Calabash. The Stadiums colouring on the outside is a mosaic of fire and earthen colours and incorporates a ring of lights which run around the bottom of the structure, simulating fire underneath the calabash pot. The symbolism behind the calabash is important, not only to the World Cup but also to the citizens of South Africa, as it is a symbol of sharing and togetherness.
As if the original stadium which was built in 1987 was big enough, the refurbishment saw the addition of more than 80 000 cubic metres of concrete, 9 000 tons of reinforcing steel, 8 000 tons of structural steel and 120 000 cubed metres of soil. The upgrade saw the addition of an extended upper tier around the stadium to increase the capacity, an additional 2 executive suites, an encircling roof, new changing room facilities and new floodlights. The number of suites in the stadium was also increased to 195.
The stadium has hosted some events of major importance, both locally and internationally. It was the venue where former president Nelson Mandela was welcomed back to Soweto after his release from prison in 1990, as well as the venue for his memorial service which was held on 10 December 2013 and saw an unprecedented gathering of world leaders. These leaders included; USA president Barrack Obama, former presidents Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter and George W Bush. The stadium is also the home grounds of Kaizer Chiefs Football Club and the South Africa national football team, Bafana Bafana.
Apart from soccer, the stadium has also host Rugby fixtures. In 2010 the FNB stadium hosted its first rugby union match, which was the Tri Nations match between South Africa and New Zealand, and to the dismay of local rugby fans the game was won by the latter. This match boasts the third highest rugby attendance ever in the Southern Hemisphere and the current record attendance for the redeveloped stadium, with an attendance of 94,713.
The stadium has played host to a number of intenational performers, including U2, Neil Diamond, Coldplay, Kings of Leon, Linkin Park, Lady Gaga, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Metallica, Bon Jovi, Justin Bieber, Rihanna, Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band and Foo Fighters.
The FNB Stadium stands as a unique architectural landmark in Gauteng and FIFA has described it as being one of the most artistic and awe-inspiring football venues on the African continent.
Contact details for the FNB Stadium:
https://www.stadiummanagement.co.za/stadiums/fnb
Accommodation Near FNB Stadium - Nasrec, Johannesburg
Melville Gap Guest House
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Melville
5.9km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgMellville Gap Guest House is situated a stone's throw from the Bohemian suburb of Melville's famous 7th Street with its vibe atmosphere, pavement cafes, cozy restaurants, antique/vintage stores and cocktail clubs, we are in the perfect location... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
7th Street Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Melville
6.6km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, Johannesburg7th Street Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Melville, Johannesburg. With 13 luxury en suite rooms equipped with DSTV, Wifi internet access, heaters, hairdryers, fans, digital safes, coffee/tea facilities and bar fridges stocked... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Forest Town Guest Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Forest Town
8.4km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgForest Town Guest Cottages situated in Forest Town in Johannesburg. These attractively and comfortably furnished villas are self-contained, separate and private, 1- and 2-bedroom villas to suit families, the business traveller and tourists. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Jack Rose
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Johannesburg Area
10.5km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgThe The Jack Rose offers the perfect Rosebank accommodation for business and leisure travellers. There are 56 huge rooms and apartments, the beds are comfortable, the WiFi is fast & free and the coffee is GOOD! This perfect location makes getting... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Panhandle Place Cottages
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Johannesburg Area
10.6km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgPanhandle Place Cottages are lovely self-catering units in a beautiful garden setting with views of the Johannesburg city skyline. We are centrally placed in an old Johannesburg suburb with tree-lined streets, safe for walking and jogging. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Residency Jellicoe
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Johannesburg Area
10.7km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgLocated centrally in the affluent and upmarket area of Rosebank, The Residency Jellicoe offers our valued guests the option of three different apartment types: A hotel room, a one-bedroom apartment, or a two-bedroom apartment, allowing for the... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Apartment at 34 Columbine
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Randpark
12.4km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgThe Apartment is a double story self catering fully equipped with linen and towels. It can sleep 4 persons. Downstairs it boasts an open plan kitchen - equipped with dishwasher, microwave, fridge opening on to the dining room area, a bathroom... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Marle' Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Alberton, East Rand
16.8km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgMarle' Lodge has 11 double en-suite rooms all beautifully finished in matching African theme. Two of the rooms have an inter-leading door to cater for families who wish to stay together. All rooms have DStv. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Littlefields Luxury Self Catering Suite
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Randburg
17.9km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgModern Luxury Self Catering Suite in Olivedale (Non Smoking) with:Separate Entrance. Smoking Section Outside Secure High Wall with Safe Parking. In Safe Boomed off Area. Marble and wooden floors. Combined Lounge Kitchen with Full DSTV... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Grosvenor Inn
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Bryanston, Johannesburg
18.1km from FNB Stadium - Nasrec, JohannesburgGrosvenor Inn provides spacious bed and breakfast accommodation in Bryanston, Sandton, Johannesburg. "The most outstanding quality of the Grosvenor Inn is the welcoming and friendly atmosphere created by the management and staff who go to great lengths... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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