With the NFL season’s start, excitement is in the air. While watching the excitement, have you ever admired the architectural marvels that house all of this happening? NFL stadiums are more than just venues for games, they are iconic buildings that blend innovation, tradition, and fan experience. Let’s take a step into the fascinating world of football stadium architectures and begin to understand some of the best examples.
Basic information about NFL stadiums
NFL stadiums are grand stages where legends are born and unforgettable moments are played out. There are 30 full-time NFL stadiums in all, and these architectural masterpieces can accommodate tens of thousands of fans with state-of-the-art amenities and extraordinary experiences. But beyond the numbers, each stadium tells a unique story that reflects the culture and spirit of the city in which it is located.
The oldest of these stadiums opened in 1924, with the newest opening in 2020. And with three new stadiums under construction and two more currently in the planning stages, this means that there will be five brand new stadiums opening in the future.
Examples of stadium buildings
And among the dozens of venues at home and abroad, we’ve picked out a few special ones to introduce you to, each with its own unique style and charm.
SoFi Stadium
SoFi Stadium is a new stadium located in Inglewood, California. It will open in 2020 and is home to the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers. And it is expected to host the opening ceremonies and swimming events of the 2028 Summer Olympics. With a capacity of more than 70,000 spectators, the stadium is one of the most technologically advanced in the world.
Architectural highlights
SoFi Stadium features an impressive transparent roof and open-air design that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor elements. But the roof is fixed, so games can be delayed by the weather. The entire building is constructed of arched steel truss compression rings and ETFE panels, and is surrounded by perforated aluminum panels. Above the stadium is a double-sided video board, the largest in sports, ensuring that every fan can see the game.
Allegiant Stadium
Nicknamed the Death Star, the Las Vegas Allegiant Stadium is as bold as its name. Home to the Las Vegas Raiders and capable of seating 65,000 spectators, this stadium is a testament to modern design and luxury. Also opening in 2020, it is currently the second most expensive stadium in the world.
Architectural highlights
With its sleek black exterior and dome, Allegiant Stadium stands out against the desert landscape. A translucent cable truss supported roof, also using ETFE for the roof. It features a retractable field and state-of-the-art facilities that make it a multi-purpose venue for concerts and events other than soccer. The roof of the arena is completely enclosed and is not retractable.
Soldier Field
Soldier Field in Chicago has a long history compared to newer venues. It is the oldest stadium in the NFL and has been home to the Chicago Bears since 1971. With a capacity of 62,500, it is also the smallest stadium in the NFL.
Architectural highlights
Soldier Field combines classical design with modern upgrades. Significantly renovated in 2002, the interior was rebuilt. Its iconic colonnade pays homage to its rich history, while renovations ensure it meets modern standards.
Wembley Stadium
London’s Wembley Stadium, while not the home of the NFL, has hosted NFL international games. There is a long association with the NFL, having hosted USFL games in 1984, bringing American football to a global audience.
Architectural highlights
Wembley’s iconic arch is a marvel, visible from miles away. With a capacity of 90,000, Wembley Stadium is the second largest stadium in Europe and opened for use in 2007. The design of Wembley Stadium focuses on creating an electric atmosphere, with retractable roof structures at the east and west ends.
Estadio Azteca
Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca is likewise another international gem, considered one of the most famous soccer stadiums. It has hosted several NFL games since 1994, showcasing the global appeal of the sport.
Architectural highlights
With a capacity of more than 87,000, the Estadio Azteca is a reinforced concrete building and is the largest stadium in Latin America. Renovations began in 2015, prioritizing visibility and acoustics. By adding 2,000 square meters of LED screens, it ensures that fans can immerse themselves in the game. It is a cultural icon that bridges continents through the love of the game of soccer.
Conclusion
An NFL stadium is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of community, culture and sportsmanship. From the futuristic SoFi Stadium to the historic Soldier Field, each venue offers a unique experience that enhances the excitement of the game. This season, as you cheer on your favorite team, take a moment to appreciate the architectures that created it all.
FAQ
Which NFL stadium is the biggest?
The biggest NFL stadium by seating capacity is MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, home to the New York Giants and Jets, with a capacity of approximately 82,500.
What is the most expensive NFL stadium?
SoFi Stadium is the most expensive stadium in the NFL, costing more than $5 billion to build.
