Maracanã - Estádio Jornalista Mário Filho: the stadiums for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil - FIFA.com Listen Built for the 1950 FIFA World Cup Brazil™, the Estadio Jornalista Mario Filho, better known as the Maracana, provided the venue for that year’s truly memorable decider between the host nation and Uruguay, one of the most dramatic chapters in the history of the competition. The Rio de Janeiro stadium will be in the limelight once again at Brazil 2014, hosting seven games in all, more than any other venue. Among those matches will be the Final on 13 July. Once the largest stadium in the world, packing in crowds of up to 200,000 – among the highest attendances ever seen in the history of the game – the Maracana now has a reduced capacity of 74,738 for Brazil 2014. It remains, nevertheless, the country’s biggest football ground.

Respecting the original layout of the stadium, the project for its refurbishment included the demolition of the lower ring of seats, the construction of a new ring offering improved visibility, the expansion of the access ramps and the replacement of all seating. The stadium is also be fitted with a new roof complete with a rainwater collection system. The facade, which has been listed by the National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage, remains untouched. Rio’s second most popular tourist attraction, the Maracana continued to attract football fans from all over the world, even as it underwent renovation. Visitors to the stadium could watch work unfold from the Torre de Vidro (Glass Tower), built especially for the occasion, and could even take a piece of the old stadium away with them as a souvenir. Top 10 World’s Largest Sports Stadiums | The Wondrous Top 10 World’s Largest Sports Stadiums Sports, Top Ten Pinterest0 1. Rungnado May Day Stadium In our list of largest sports stadiums of the world, Rungnado May Day Stadium or May Day Stadium, is largest stadium of the world. Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Pyongyang, North Korea, completed on May 1, 1989.

The stadium was constructed as a main stadium for the 13th edition of World Festival of Youth and Students in 1989. It is currently used for football matches, a few athletics matches, but most often for Arirang performances (also known as the Mass Games). The stadium can seat 150,000, which is the largest non-auto racing stadium capacity in the world. Its name comes from Rungra Island in the Taedong River, upon which it is situated, and May Day, the international day celebrating labour and particularly celebrated among communists. Its scalloped roof features 16 arches arranged in a ring, and it is said to resemble a parachute or a magnolia blossom. This post features top ten largest sports stadiums of the world. 2. Salt Lake Stadium Salt Lake Stadium The stadium is the second largest non-auto racing stadium in the world and the largest in the Indian sub-continent. It is currently used for football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 people in a three-tier configuration. It is situated approximately 10 km from the heart of the city. It is elliptical in shape.

The roof is made of metal tubes and aluminum sheets and concrete. There are two electronic score boards and control rooms. The lighting is uniformly distributed to facilitate nocturnal sports. The stadium covers an area of 76.40 acres. It was inaugurated in January, 1984. The salient features of the stadium are unique synthetic track for athletic meets, electronic scoreboard, main football arena measuring 105m x 70m, elevators, VIP enclosures, peripheral floodlighting arrangement from the roof-top, air conditioned VIP rest room and Conference Hall. 3. Estadio Azteca Stadium Estadio Azteca is a stadium in Mexico City, Mexico. It is the official home stadium of the Mexico national football team and the Mexican team Club América. Estadio Azteca was the primary venue for association football at the 1968 Summer Olympics and is the only stadium ever to host two FIFA World Cup final matches, in 1970 and 1986. It also hosted the 1986 quarter-final between Argentina and England in which Diego Maradona scored both the “Hand of God goal” and the “Goal of the Century”.

The stadium also hosted the “Game of the Century”, when Italy defeated Germany with scores of 4-3 in extra time. Estadio Azteca Stadium is third largest in the world. 4. Michigan Stadium Michigan Stadium nicknamed The Big House, is the football stadium for the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan Stadium has often been called “The Carnegie Hall of all Sports” and is also known as “the House that Yost built. It was built in 1927, at a cost of $950,000 and had an original capacity of 72,000. Before playing football at the stadium, the Wolverines played on Ferry Field. Today, Michigan Stadium has an official capacity of 106,201, due to renovations for the 2008 season. The stadium previously had a capacity of 107,501 spectators. The football game attendance often exceeds 111,000 when band members, stadium staff, and others are added. Michigan is 4th largest in stadium in the world. 5. Beaver Stadium Beaver Stadium is an outdoor college football stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania, on the campus of The Pennsylvania State University.

It is home to the Penn State Nittany Lions of the Big Ten Conference. Beaver Stadium has an official seating capacity of 107,282, making it currently the largest stadium in the Western Hemisphere and the 5th largest in the world. 6. Jornalista Mario Filho Jornalista Mario Filho is an open-air stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Owned by the Rio de Janeiro State Government, it is named after the Maracanã neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro. It was opened in 1950 to host the FIFA World Cup. Since then, it has mainly been used for football matches between the major football clubs in Rio de Janeiro, including Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense and Vasco da Gama. It has also hosted a number of concerts and other sporting events. Although the paid attendance at the final game of the 1950 FIFA World Cup was 199,854, the stadium currently seats 82,238 spectators. It is the largest stadium in South America and 6th largest stadium of the world.

It is due to host the World Cup Final in the 2014 World Cup, becoming the second stadium to host football’s most important match twice after the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The stadium will also be the centrepiece of the 2016 Summer Olympics and 2016 Summer Paralympics as the site of ceremonies and the football finals, besides the FIFA World Cup in 2014. 7. Ohio Stadium Ohio Stadium is the home of the Buckeyes football team at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, United States. The stadium was added to the National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service on March 22, 1974. Ohio Stadium also provided a home to the Columbus Crew of the MLS from the league’s inception in 1996 until soccer-specific Columbus Crew Stadium opened in 1999. With a capacity of 102,329, it is the third largest stadium in the NCAA and the 7th largest non-racing stadium in the world. Ohio Stadium is also a concert venue; U2, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and Metallica are among the many acts who have played at Ohio Stadium.

8. Neyland Stadium Neyland Stadium is a sports stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee. It serves primarily as the home of the Tennessee Volunteers football team, but is also used to host large conventions and has been a site for several NFL exhibition games with the last between the Washington Redskins and Houston Oilers during the Oilers transition to Nashville in 1998. After 79 years and 16 expansion projects, Neyland Stadium peaked at an official maximum capacity of 104,079 seats. Capacity was reduced to 102,037 with the addition of the new East Club seats in 2006. Due to the addition of the new West Club seats in 2009, the capacity currently stands at 100,011. Neyland stadium is 8th largest stadium of the world. 9. National Stadium Bukit Jalil National Stadium Bukit Jalil in Bukit Jalil, located in the National Sports Complex to the south of the capital city of Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, is a 87,411 capacity all-seater, multi-purpose stadium that was built in 1998 to host the 1998 Commonwealth Games.

The stadium is considered the best stadium in Malaysia and is the home of the Malaysian football team. Initially built for the Commonwealth Games, the stadium is now used for a variety of events, most recently being one of the venues for the AFC Asian Cup 2007. National Stadium Bukit Jalil is 9th largest stadium of the world. 10. Melbourne Cricket Ground Melbourne Cricket Ground is an Australian sports stadium located in Yarra Park in inner Melbourne, home to the Melbourne Cricket Club. It is the largest stadium in Australia, and holds the world record for the highest light towers at any sporting venue. The MCG is within walking distance of the city centre, and is serviced by Richmond and Jolimont train stations. It is part of the Melbourne Sports and Entertainment Precinct. Internationally, the MCG is remembered as the centrepiece stadium of the 1956 Summer Olympics and the 2006 Commonwealth Games. The open-air stadium is also one of the world’s most famous cricket venues, with the well-attended Boxing Day Test match commencing on Boxing Day every year.

Throughout the winter, it serves as the home of Australian rules football, with at least one game (though usually more) held there each round. The Melbourne stadium is 10th largest stadium of the world. Largest Football Stadiums Chris Mann 24 November, 2009 Best of SL In this article we look at ten of the world’s largest football stadiums, some perhaps better known than others, and assess their legacies and impact both on the game and in their individual countries. We also look ahead and ask what the future may hold for this selection of magnificent sporting venues. Perhaps the best part about these massive football stadiums is the opportunity to tie in football and travel, and take short breaks from your regular 9-to-5 work schedule to hop on a plane and visit some of these beautiful countries, and enjoy football all around the world. #1 – Rungrado May Day Stadium (Pyongyang, North Korea) Capacity: 150,000 A vast architectural monument to Communism, the Rungrado May Day Stadium in Pyongyang was opened in 1989 and can house and incredible 150,000 spectators.

Although the primary purpose of the stadium is to host vast parades and other public spectacles in North Korea, it is also used to host some of the national football team’s fixtures making it the largest football stadium on the planet. Unfortunately, being situated in one of the international community’s most isolated and volatile states, it is extremely unlikely that this magnificent arena will ever play host to a major tournament or have its turf graced by some of the world’s best players. #2 – Salt Lake Stadium (Kolkata, India) Capacity: 120,000 With a population of well over one billion you might expect India to play host to one of the planet’s largest stadiums and the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata does not disappoint. With a capacity of 120,000, the home of the Indian national team is said to generate an incredible atmosphere when The Bhangra Boys are in town. As well as playing host to the national side, the Salt Lake Stadium is also used by four of India’s leading clubs.

Chirag United Sports Club, Mohun Bagan, East Bengal Club and Mohammedan Sporting Club are equal tenants of the stadium and all play their football in the top flight of the Indian game, the I-League First Division. With football in Kolkata going from strength to strength, Salt Lake Stadium is set to continue its role as a focal point for football in the country and, as the arena continues to modernise, a clear sign of the rapid improvement footballing facilities are making in what is has been an area of widespread growth for the game in the modern era. #3 – Estadio Azteca (Mexico City, Mexico) Capacity: 105,000 One of the most emblematic stadia in world football, Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium is the home of the Mexican national team and is probably best remembered for the two World Cup final’s it hosted in 1970 and 1986. Having twice been the venue for football’s most prestigious event, the Azteca is held dear to many fans of the game; but it is not the matches themselves, rather the moments of football history that have taken place on its turf that have made it one of the most famous arenas of all time.

The 1970 World Cup showcased the talents of what was arguably the greatest team of all time; the Brazil side of Pele, Carlos Alberto, Rivelino and Jairzinho. Playing one of the most vibrant and expansive brands of football ever seen, it was in the Azteca that the Selecao of 1970 confirmed their greatness and claimed the Jules Rimet trophy for the third time in the country’s history. During the 1986 quarter final between England and Argentina, the Azteca was again a central agent in the creation of more immortal football history. Maradona’s “hand of God” moment was quickly followed by one of the greatest individual goals of all time as El Diego weaved his way past the majority of the England team to carve his name into the global footballing consciousness forever. In the final of the same tournament it was again Argentina that triumphed, Jorge Burrachaga scoring the winning goal in an epic 3-2 victory over West Germany.

The Azteca’s history is so inextricably linked with some of the most significant moments in football’s remarkable journey that it has had its legend imprinted into the annals of football history and, as a result, will always be one of the game’s most iconic structures. #4 – Melbourne Cricket Ground (Melbourne, Australia) Capacity: 100,018 Although best known as one of cricket’s most impressive venues, the Melbourne Cricket Ground also plays host to many of the Australian national football team’s most high-profile fixtures. With a capacity of just over 100,000, the MCG is comfortably the biggest stadium in Australia and one of the southern hemisphere’s most iconic and atmospheric arenas. As well as hosting a number of Australia’s World Cup Qualifiers, in 2007 the ground played host to a friendly between The Socceroos and Argentina. Although Australia were missing a handful of key players for the game, many of Argentina’s superstars took part in the game with Lionel Messi, Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano all gracing the MCG’s hallowed turf, giving the stadium more exposure and credibility as a venue amongst the footballing community in the process.

It is clear that the MCG is doing its best to be recognised as a top quality football arena and, should it continue to showcase Australia’s competitive matches and other high-profile fixtures, looks to be well on its way to achieving such a status. #5 – Bukit Jalil National Stadium (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) Capacity: 100,000 Situated in the ultra-modern city of Kuala Lumpur, the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Malaysia was built to house the 1998 Commonwealth Games and has since gone on to become the home of the Malaysian football team. Back in June Manchester United played at the stadium as part of their pre-season tour of Asia in front of a sizeable crowd of 40,000. Sir Alex Ferguson’s team went up against a Malaysia XI in the Bukit Jalil, the Red Devils eventually emerging 3-2 victors with Michael Owen scoring a late winner. The stadium is clearly a world class venue and, by hosting the likes of Manchester United and other major European teams, is increasing its global exposure and building on its already impeccable reputation.

#6 – Camp Nou (Barcelona, Spain) Capacity: 98,772 Opened in 1957 as a symbol of Catalan nationalism, Barcelona’s Camp Nou is one of the most striking football grounds in the world and emblematic of the unique Catalan culture and a regional identity. Since the Camp Nou’s completion in the middle of the twentieth century, FC Barcelona, it’s illustrious tenants, have been at the forefront of European football and has enjoyed serial successes in this magnificent arena. Thirteen league titles, twelve Copa del Rey triumphs and three European Cups during the club’s residency at the Camp Nou have made Barcelona one of the most prestigious club’s in history and a true giant of world football. In 2007 Barcelona announced plans for the modernisation and further expansion of the Camp Nou in celebration of the stadium’s fiftieth anniversary. If the plans are carried out the stadium will have its capacity increased to over 112,000, a figure which would comfortably make the Camp Nou the largest football-exclusive arena in the world.

In conjunction with the increased capacity, the club’s members voted in favour of revamping the stadium, with Norman Foster – the man responsible for New York’s Heart Tower, London’s “Gherkin” building and the restoration of the new Wembley Stadium – being appointed to bring his architectural flair to the project. The future of the Camp Nou looks very bright indeed. #7 – Soccer City (Johannesburg, South Africa) Capacity: 94,700 The home of the South African national team and the stadium which will host the 2010 World Cup final, the newly renovated Soccer City in Johannesburg is looking more impressive as ever as it is prepared to have the eyes of the world fixed upon it next summer. Having had its capacity expanded from 78,000 to almost 95,000, Soccer City looks set to be a tremendous venue for football’s showpiece tournament . The stadium is designed so that no single fan in the ground will be more than 100 metres away from the action, something which, with the tension of tournament football and the exuberant cacophony of the vuvuzelas, will surely make for a cauldron-like atmosphere next summer.

A first World Cup in Africa is certainly a cause for celebration amongst the football community, and Soccer City is a stadium very much in keeping with the sense of occasion the 2010 tournament should induce. #8 – Wembley Stadium (London, UK) Capacity: 90,000 Some may complain about the second interpretation of the historic Wembley Stadium having less “soul” and “character” than the original, but Norman Foster’s architecturally stunning composition must surely be considered to be one of the most magnificent sporting arenas in Europe and the world. One of UEFA’s Elite Stadiums and the new home of the England national team, Wembley has quickly become one of the most recognisable stadia in football with its distinctive arch already an iconic part of the London skyline. The FA will be hoping that their lavish new arena can become the centrepiece for their bid to host the 2018 World Cup, its state-of-the-art facilities making it arguably the most advanced football stadia around and a potentially stunning venue for some of football’s most notable events.

With the new Wembley continuing to grow in popularity as nostalgia for the twin towers of the original fades in the face of the success England have been enjoying in their new home, the stadium will surely develop a “character” of its own and become an integral part of British and European football history as the game continues to evolve and grow over time. #9 – Azadi Stadium (Tehran, Iran) Capacity: 90,000 With a capacity equalling that of Wembley, Tehran’s Azadi Stadium was built in the mid-1970s to host the Asian Games and has since become the home of Iranian football and to Esteghalal FC and Persepolis FC – clubs playing in the highest tier of the Iranian football ladder – in the country’s post-revolution era. Despite perhaps not housing the level of football a stadium of the Azadi’s magnitude deserves, it has hosted a number of regional tournaments such as the West Asian Football Federation Championship and the Asian Club Championship.

Furthermore, being the permanent home of the Iranian senior team, it is the venue for the country’s World Cup qualification games and, although the Iranian government bans women from attending football matches, was filled for the first time in a qualifier against Japan in the lead-up to the 2006 World Cup. Having been renovated as recently as 2003, the Azadi Stadium can confidently claim to be the outstanding footballing venue in the Middle East. #10 – Estadio do Maracana (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) Capacity: 88,992 The final entry on this list is one of the most recognisable football stadiums in the world, Rio de Janeiro’s Estadio do Maracana. Built between 1948 and 1950, the Maracana has been synonymous with the dominance of Brazilian football on the world stage ever since its construction. Indeed, its completion coincides almost exactly with the rise of Brazil to become the finest and most consistent football team of the last century.

The stadium’s initial purpose was to host the 1950 World Cup, Brazil agonizingly losing out to Uruguay in the last match of the final round in front of an incredible 199,954 spectators jammed into this magnificent arena. Since then it has been home to no less than four of the country’s most high-profile clubs at different times; Flamengo, Fluminese, Botafogo and Vasco da Gama all having used the Maracana as their home at various points in their history, Flamengo and Fluminese still being part-time tenants of South America’s largest ground. As Brazil gears up for the 2014 World Cup, the Maracana is also undergoing a revamp, and although the city / stadium for the Final hasn’t been decided, the Maracana is sure to be hosting the main event. The 2013 Confederations Cup will give fans a better idea of what to expect during Brazil’s World Cup, but if I were you, I’d be booking flights right away. It promises to be a cracking event with plenty of entertainment on and off the pitch.

Not only is the Maracana of great historical significance, it also looks set to continue its sporting prominence in the coming years with the arrival of both the World Cup and the Olympics in Rio in 2014 and 2016 respectively. Not only is this the stadium forever associated with Pele, Rivelino, Socrates, Ronaldo and a whole host other Brazilian greats, it will also be an arena for future generations of athletes to showcase their talents on the turf of this most famous of venues. The legend of the Maracana lives on. The Stadiums of Rio de Janeiro | The Rio Times | Brazil News - Advertisement - By Robbie Blakeley, Contributing Sports Reporter RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Being a city renowned for its passion for o jogo bonito (The Beautiful Game), and with the legendary Maracanã Stadium out of action until 2013, Rio’s football (soccer) fans are left without an iconic sporting seat. There is still plenty of action to watch though, and the alternatives in Rio are Botafogo’s Engenhão Stadium, and Vasco’s São Januario Stadium.

The Engenhão Stadium, photo by Martins Tito/Wikimedia Creative Commons License. The Engenhão, or Estadio Olimpico João Havelange, to give the arena its full name, opened its doors in 2007 after four years in the making. Named after the former FIFA president, the stadium gets its nickname from its location in the Engenho de Dentro neighborhood. Since its opening, the stadium has been the home ground of Rio side Botafogo . However, the club do not own the stadium, instead renting it from the City of Rio de Janeiro, meaning many fans fail to recognize the ground as a true “home”. Since the temporary closing of the Maracanã for renovations required by FIFA and the 2014 World Cup , rival clubs Fluminense and Flamengo have also set up camp at the stadium, due it being the biggest public stadium left in the city. But not all fans are happy. Lifelong Flamengo fan Caio Neves is one supporter certainly looking forward to the return of the Maracanã. “Travel to and from the Engenhão makes life far more complicated.

I live in Niterói, meaning I have to take the ferry to Rio and then a bus to get to the match. Before, I could take a direct bus to the Maracanã in just 45 minutes.” The best way to get to Engenhão from the Rio’s city center is by bus. On Avenida Presidente Vargas, the 277 bus heading north drops people right outside the stadium. For atmosphere, Vasco' São Januario wins hands down, photo by Edmar Moreira/Vasco Imagem. In contrast, Vasco own the historic São Januario Stadium that they have called home for over 75 years. What it lacks in modern architecture it more than makes up for in atmosphere. Built on a European model in the mid 1920s, the four terraces stand close to the pitch; when the stadium is sold out, which happens far more frequently than with the Engenhão, the din from the top of the picturesque hill can be deafening. The stadium can hold close to 35,000 fans and was the first football stadium to be built in Rio. No wonder the Vascainas are proud of their ancient home.

Like the more modern Engenhão, the stadium is located in Zona Norte (North Zone) and it can be difficult to get there if you don’t know where you are going. It is possible to take the train, but the best way is by the 473 bus which drops outside the gates. Located on a hill in the Vasco da Gama neighborhood area, this stadium is worth the visit, if not just for the view then to see Ricardo Gomes’ vastly improving Vasco side play. The Maracanã doors will remain closed for approximately another eighteen months, currently scheduled for reopening in January 2013. Now is the perfect opportunity to get out and explore a little more of the city’s rich football heritage. - Advertisement - Maracanã Soccer Stadium, Rio de Janeiro 113 Insider Tips, Photos and Reviews Private Tour: Rio de Janeiro City Essentials Including Corcovado and Sugar Loaf "Begin your day with convenient pickup service at either your hotel the airport or cruise terminal. Board a private vehicle with your English-speaking driver/guide. Head to the Corcovado train station. Leave your driver/guide and take the train up the mountain. Visit Christ the Redeemer Statue.

Return to the designated m along a scenic drive through Tijuca Park. See the world's largest urban forest. Visit the Chinese View and the Emperor's Table observation points. Head north of the city to Maracana one of the world's most famous football stadiums. Take a 40-minute tour of the stadium (own expense). Enjoy some Brazilian cuisine at a local restaurant (own expense) before heading to the Selaron Stairs. Admire this staircase decorated with colo an old aqueduct and interesting architectural landmark. Stop at the Metropolitan Cathedral. Drive through Flamengo Park to Sugar Loaf Mountain. Take the cable car up the mountain on your own. See the majestic landscape and view the sunset from at a wealthy neighborhood dating back to the 1920s. Relax during a short drive through this area.Return to hotel at the end of the tour.""" One Day In Rio de Janeiro: City Sightseeing Tour "This tour begins with a visit to the Corcovado Mountain. The statue is 710 meters tall and from that point you'll get a privileged view of the city.

The ride to the base of the statue of Christ the Redeemer is a short drive of about 20 minutes through th you are greeted by the main monument of Brazil and a World Heritage site which introduces you to the city of Rio. After this visit the tour heads towards the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro then the Sambódromo and the city tour ends with a visit to Journalist Mario Filho Stadium popularly known as Maracanã for an outside visit. You'll then head to a steakhouse for lunch and then visit the Sugar Loaf. Located at the Urca neighborhood Full Day Complete Tour of Rio de Janeiro "After early morning hotel pickup you'll enjoy a tour of Christ the Redeemer without many of the crowds. On the way you will enjoy views of Copacabana beach Botafogo beach and Palácio Guanabara. Before heading up you'll reach Tijuca Forest stopping at Paineiras to board the vehicles up to Corcovado. The visit to the monument lasts approximately 45 minutes.

In case of poor visibility on the summit of the Corcovado you will make an alternative stop at Mirante Dona Marta (362m) FIFA World Cup Brazil Stadiums | Great Atlantic Sports Travel FIFA World Cup Brazil Stadiums Belo Horizonte - Estadio Mineirao: Estadio Mineirao was once said to hold over 132,000 people in a match-up between Vila Nova and Cruzeiro; at which game women and children were admitted free totaling near 56,000 in addition to those 74,000 ticketed. That huge capacity did not last long after FIFA decided it was unsafe and limited capacity to a total of 72,000. The stadium was built in 1965 and named after the current governor Magalhaes Pinto. The stadium will undergo refurbishments to enable more efficient water and electricity consumption and also possess the ability to transform luminous light into electrical power. In order to lower the pitch per FIFA's requirements around 5,700 trucks of soil were removed during the refurbishments, which now leaves the stands closer to the pitch.

Brasilia - Estadio Nacional: Refurbishments to the stadium that was originally created in March of 1974, will take the arena to the 2nd place finish for the largest football venue in the country. The stadium will grow to a capacity of just over 71,000 seats from a previous capacity of a little over 42,000. In addition the renovations will offer all 71,000+ seats with cover. A Light Rail System will offer tourists with a transportation option to and around the venue, including sectors with high volumes of hotels and the main city road, W3. Cuiaba - Arena Pantanal: As one of the smaller arenas hosting a World Cup game, the Arena Pantanal holds a capacity of around 42,500. Most arenas set to host a World Cup game are making renovations or completely constructing a new venue. Cuiaba is refurbishing the once Verdao into the now eco- friendly Pantanal Arena. The new arena has already won the America's Property Awards in the Public Enterprises category for its commitment to sustainability, socio-environmental responsibility and the urban upgrade of the city.

Rain water will be reused to irrigate the pitch as well as clean the restroom toilets. Solar power is integrated into the stadium power uses as well. Curitiba - Arena da Baixada: The Arena da Baixada was not always known by that name. Since being built in 1914, the stadium was then demolished in 1997 and rebuilt in 1999 before being acquired by Japanese company Kyocera and renamed a fitting, Kyocera Arena. Once the sponsorship expired in 2008, the company did not renew and the stadium obtained its original name again. The privately owned Arena da Baixada is the smallest stadium of the hosting arenas in the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™; seating a maximum of only 41,375. In Curitiba the downtown metro area is located at a higher altitude, whereas the Arena da Baixada, in Portuguese baixada meaning "area of lower altitude, is in a lower altitude outside of the metro.

Fortaleza - Estadio Castelao: The Castelao belongs to the government of Ceara after Placido Aderaldo Castelo, current governor in 1968, started the building of the stadium. The current capacity will hold 60,326 people. The New Castelao project should add to the stadium complex, a shopping center and a hotel. The stadium itself will grow a roof to cover all the seating in the stadium. In addition there will be a 4,200 car parking lot to be built underground. Manaus - Vivaldo/Arena Amazonia: The Vivaldo has been holding matches since its development in April 1970 and has hosted some of the most important teams in the game. Brazil defeated an Amazonas State Team by 4-1 at the Vivaldo in a match that was witnessed by such dignitaries as then-FIFA President Stanley Rous. After all the renovations and refurbishments are completed the Vivaldo will be transformed into the new Arena Amazonia will hold 48,000 fans.

Natal - Arena das Dunas: Plans underway for the new arena in the area of Natal include the venue Arena das Dunas (a collaboration of the previous Machadao stadium and the Machadinho sports center) with a capacity for 45,000 people, a shopping mall, business offices, hotels, an amphitheatre, and an artificial lake. One major concern is whether the first federal airport to become private, Sao Goncalo do Amarante Airport, will be at completion by the start of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™. Natal is the city closest to Europe and Africa making it the most convenient gateway for tourist from those countries to enter Brazil. Two million tourists made a visit to Natal in 2010, and it is estimated that number could grow to three million during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™. Porto Alegre - Estadio Beira - Rio: Beira- Rio translates to "river bank" - fitting for a stadium that is located along the River Guaiba, however the stadium received its name from engineer Jose Pinheiro Borda, who worked on the construction of the stadium but passed away before it's completion.

Record attendance for the stadium is a vast 106,000 but is now limited to a capacity of a little over half at 62,000. This stadium is among the others receiving renovations for the big game. New plans for this arena include, a new cover to go across the entire stadium, ramps and access gates, 8,000 parking spaces, new press booths, shops, restaurants, and other leisure areas making it an even better experience for the game ticket holders. Recife - Arena Pernambuco: Being a World Cup host city brings many opportunities for tourism income as well as new renovations to accommodate the travel. Recife is a good example of this as they are currently constructing the stadium to host a World Cup match. The Arena Pernambuco will hold a capacity of 46,000 seats and allow for parking of 6,000 vehicles. Beyond the stadium, new metro ways, schools, shopping venues, hotels, and parks, will be developed as part of the large project titled "World Cup Host City." Rio de Janeiro - Estadio do Maracana: The Maracana Stadium is one of the world's most famous stadiums.

Putting on that lists are the statistics that it is one of two stadiums to host two finals, also it can boast the biggest crowd ever at a football match, nearly 200,000! It is the 11th largest stadium in the world and the #1 largest in South America. After a tragic loss of 50 lives during an incident in 1992, the current capacity has been reduced to a still outstanding 77,000. Salvador - Arena Fonte Nova: The Fonte Nova Stadium was originally opened in January of 1951 and has hosted many games since. In 2007 the stadium was closed due to a tragic accident that cost 7 fans their lives. In 2010 the old stadium was demolished and plans for the new venue began in August of that year. Upon completion in what is expected to be December 2012, the stadium will boast new seating for 55,000 with almost all of those seats covered in a plastic membrane for extra comfort and safety, 70-100 boxes for seating, modern press facilities, and new remodeled changing rooms.

As a spectator you can expect to see panoramic restaurants, shops, kiosks and a business center, but most interesting is the stadium is to hold the Museum of Football and Music. Besides the exciting World Cup games the venue is expected to host around 80 concerts each year. Sao Paulo - Fielzao Corinthians Stadium: The first brick was laid for the new stadium to host a 2014 World Cup game on July 14th and is the first ever arena in the East area of Sao Paulo. It is estimated that the stadium should conclude construction by December of 2013. The new, over $467 million dollar, World Cup venue will hold around 68,000 soccer fans. Nearby the soon-to-be a stadium is an already existing metro station that will allow convenience and ease of travel for those lucky enough to attend the 2014 games.

Ranking the Top 10 Most Iconic Stadiums in World Football | Bleacher Report Ranking the Top 10 Most Iconic Stadiums in World Football Use your ← → (arrow) keys to browse the slideshow Robert Prezioso/Getty Images 78 Comments Everyone has their own favourite stadium in the world, perhaps with a particular memory of just why that ground holds a special place in their heart. But what are the most iconic football stadiums in the world, and what criteria does one use to judge this? Well, here are my top 10. The important factors in deciding this list are the stadium’s capacity and record attendances, what major footballing tournaments and showpiece finals they have held, and what eye-catching and memorable matches took place there. Let's begin... Record attendance: 61,905 (Liverpool v. Wolverhampton Wanderers, 2 Feb 1952) City: Liverpool Home to Liverpool FC, Anfield is renowned throughout the game for the incredible atmosphere that the ground generates, particularly on big European nights, with the Spion Kop behind one of the goals perhaps the most famous stand in world football. Record attendance: 57, 395 (Boca v.

San Lorenzo, 25 May 1940) City: Buenos Aires It's full name is the Estadio Alberto J. Armando, but known more commonly simply as La Bombonera (which translates into English as "The Chocolate Box," owing to its odd shape). Due to the La Boca district in Buenos Aires where the stadium is located, the ground has a fearsome reputation as generating one of the most intimidating atmospheres in world football. Tenants: AC Milan and Internazionale Milano Opened: 19 Sept 1926 Record attendance: 100,000 (25 April 1956, Italy v. Brazil) City: Milan More commonly known as San Siro because of the district in Milan where the stadium is located, the ground was renamed on 3 March 1980 after Giuseppe Meazza, who played for both Milan and Inter. Originally San Siro was only the property of the Rossoneri, until their city rivals also became joint tenants in 1947.

In the intervening years, the stadium has had the honour of hosting three European Cup finals (1965, 1970 and 2001), while it also underwent a $60 million renovation for the 1990 World Cup finals. Record attendance: 120,000 (Barcelona v. Juventus, 5 March 1986) City: Barcelona As the largest football stadium currently in Europe, and the 11th-biggest in the entire world, Barcelona’s home ground deservedly takes its place amongst the top 10, and while it has never hosted a World Cup or European Championship final, it has staged two European Cup finals (1989 and 1999). Tenants: FC Bayern Munich and TSV1860 Munich Opened: 26 May 1972 Record attendance: No records City: Munich Specifically built for the 1972 summer Olympic Games, the stadium was then used to host matches in the subsequent 1974 World Cup finals, including the final itself between home nation West Germany and Netherlands.

After that tournament the ground became home to first Bayern Munich and then in the 1990s 1860 Munich, until both Bundesliga sides moved into their own stadiums in 2005. The Olympiastadion has also had the honour of hosting the 1979, 1993 and 1997 European Cup finals, as well as the final of the 1988 European Championship between the Soviet Union and Netherlands. Record attendance: 100,000 (River Plate v. Racing Club, 1975) City: Buenos Aires Similar to Wembley stadium in England, the Monumental is the national stadium of Argentina (although they do not play all their home games there) and is best remembered for the matches it hosted in the 1978 World Cup finals. These included the final against Netherlands and the eye-catching ticker-tape reception with which the home fans would greet La Albiceleste.

Record attendance: 120,000 (1953) City: Madrid Named after chairman Santiago Bernabeu Yeste, Real Madrid’s home ground is not only one of the most recognisable in Spain, but throughout the world, too, as befits a stadium that has not only been asked to host European Cup finals in four different decades (1957,1969, 1980 and 2010), but has also staged the 1982 World Cup final. Record attendance: 199,854 (Brazil v. Uruguay, 16 July 1950) City: Rio de Janeiro Named after the Rio Maracana, a river in Rio, the stadium was built specifically for the 1950 World Cup finals in Brazil, with the final of that competition between the host nation and Uruguay attracting the largest-ever attendance for a football match in the history of the game (199,854).

Since that tournament, the ground has mainly be used to host matches for club sides from Rio, including the likes of Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense and Vasco da Gama, and its current capacity still makes it the largest ground in South America—although that will be reduced to 78,883 upon completion of renovations for the 2013 Confederations Cup, the 2014 World Cup finals and the 2016 summer Olympic Games. Record attendance: 126,047 (28 April 1923, Bolton Wanderers v. West Ham United) City: London Home of the England national football team between 1923 and 2000, as well as having the honour of hosting more European Cup finals than any other stadium (1963, 1968, 1971, 1978 and 1992), Wembley has also held both the 1966 World Cup final and the 1996 European Championship final.

It was closed in 2000 and demolished three years later in order to build the new Wembley, which was opened in 2007. Regarded by many as being the "home" of football and certainly one of the most famous stadiums in the world, the ground is perhaps best remembered for its twin towers that were once considered to be iconic of the might of the England team. Record attendance: 119,853 (Mexico v. Brazil, 7 July 1968) City: Mexico City As the only stadium to have ever had the privilege of being asked to host two World Cup finals (1970 and 1986), the Azteca stadium is the most iconic in world football, as well as being both the fifth-largest ground in the world and the largest football pitch on Planet Football. Home to both the Mexican national team and domestic side Club America, the stadium is associated with some of the most memorable international matches in the history of the game, including the 1970 World Cup final between Brazil and Italy, and of course the 1986 World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England which featured both of Diego Maradona ’s infamous goals.

Question: Brazil has one of the world’s largest soccer stadia – what is it called?
Answer: Maracana