International Football Center of Rizhao – stadium description

Why was a new football stadium built in Rizhao?

In 2018, Rizhao was awarded the right to host the 25th edition of the Shandong Provincial Games, to be held in 2022. In connection with this event, the city authorities took steps to improve the sports infrastructure. One of the investments planned at the time was the construction of a new, football-specific stadium to be the main arena for football competitions during these Games.

When was the new football stadium in Rizhao built?

The site for the new stadium was designated in the northern part of the city. The design was prepared by the British studio AFL Architects. Xingye Group was chosen as the main contractor and then operator of the arena (the construction work was actually carried out by a subsidiary of Tiantai Construction). The cost of the development is approximately 400 million yuan. Construction of the facility began in spring 2020, with completion scheduled for the end of 2021.

The facility was finally ready in April 2022, and the first test match was played on May 13, 2022. However, the real inauguration can be considered the opening ceremony of the football tournament, held as part of the 25th Shandong Provincial Games, which took place at the stadium on July 8, 2022.

What are the features of the Rizhao football stadium?

The stadium has a football-specific layout, without an athletics track. Single-tier stands surround the pitch on all sides and the first row is above the level of the pitch, which has been fitted with hybrid turf. Folding plastic seats have been installed in the auditorium, arranged in a mosaic of black, blue, turquoise, pink and white colours.

The main stand with boxes and facilities is located on the west side. The capacity of the facility is 12,100 spectators. All stands are covered with a roof (above the main stand it is slightly higher). Two video screens have been placed in the stands behind the goals. The roof is equipped with floodlights and a sound system.

The imaginatively designed facade of the main stand is by far the most distinctive feature of the stadium. Its design is intended to evoke a sailboat, alluding to the city's coastal character. On the other sides, the stands are clad in a light-coloured façade.

A training pitch and car parks were built next to the stadium. The project prepared by AFL Architects envisages the future construction of sports halls, a swimming pool, retail and service facilities or a hotel around the stadium. This is complemented by a new football academy, built approximately 7 km east of the stadium.

The facility has been designed to the highest standards, following the example of football facilities in Europe. It is the first stadium of its kind in Shandong province and only the seventh in the whole of China.

What purpose does the Rizhao football stadium serve?

The stadium is suitable for hosting national and international football matches, as well as other events. In the second half of the 2022 Chinese Super League season, Beijing Guoan FC played its home matches at this stadium.