Kazan Arena – construction description

New stadium for Rubin Kazan is built in eastern district of Savinovo, facing a dense residential estate to the west and river Kazanka to the east. Its construction was triggered by Kazan winning the bid to host 2013 Universiade, which later made getting on the list of 2018 World Cup venues easier.

Started in 2010, the construction was expected to end in late 2012, but a significant delay caused it not to be ready by the Universiade at all. Current plan envisages making the stadium operable for the event, but finished only afterwards.

Designed by Populous in 2009 it was subject to controversy due to similarity with earlier work of the office, scrapped national stadium of Northern Ireland. The bowl was thus lowered on both ends, making its shape more dynamic. Western façade will have a giant screen incorporated into it, while eastern will be covered with glass. Inside the double-tiered stands have rather uncommon layout, determined partly by the 8 roof supports in corners.