Stade des Antonins – design description

How did the construction of a temporary stadium for Nîmes Olympique happen?

At the end of the second decade of the 21st century, plans were made to build Stade Nemausus, a new stadium for Nîmes Olympique footballers, to be built on the site of the existing Stade des Costières. When these plans became a reality, the decision was taken to build a temporary stadium where the club would play its matches while Stade Nemausus was being built.

The temporary facility was decided to be constructed near Stade des Costières, on the other side of the A9 motorway, slightly closer towards the junction with the A54 motorway, next to the Cap Costières shopping centre. Planning permission for the temporary arena was obtained in the summer of 2021, but archaeological work delayed the start of work and construction of the stadium did not begin until May 2022.

How much will the temporary stadium in Nîmes cost?

The cost of building the temporary venue will be around €9-10 million and will be covered by private funds. The investment is being carried out by SAS Nemau, a company set up primarily to build the new Stade Nemausus.

During what period will the temporary Nîmes Olympique facility be used?

On November 5, 2022, the last meeting at the Stade des Costières took place. The first match in the new temporary stadium is scheduled for December 26, 2022. At the beginning of 2023, demolition of the old Stade des Costières is due to start, followed by the construction of the new Stade Nemausus, scheduled to open in 2026. Until then, Nîmes Olympique will play its matches at the temporary facility.

What is the name of Nîmes Olympique's temporary stadium?

Shortly after construction of the provisional stadium began, the club organised a public vote for the best name for the facility. In the end, 'Stade des Antonins' was chosen, honouring the ancient Roman Antonine dynasty, one of whose representatives was Nîmes-born (Latin: Nemausus) Antoninus Pius, Roman emperor from 138 to 161.

What will Stade des Antonins look like?

The stadium will have four detached stands on each side of the pitch. The main stand with extended facilities will be on the west side. The auditorium on the east, west and behind the south goal (slightly lower) will be fitted with a canopy. Behind the gate on the north side, a much more modest, unroofed stand with 400 seats for visiting supporters will be built.

Due to the temporary nature of the facility, the auditorium will rest on metal structures. The stands will be equipped with red plastic seats. The capacity of the arena will be 8033 spectators. The pitch will have a turf with a hybrid surface, and four floodlight masts will be erected in the corners of the stadium.