Al Lang Stadium – design description

The 2nd-league club Tampa Bay Rowdies proposed expanding their stadium in a bid to join MLS as a future expansion side. Instead of the old capacity of 7,500 Al Lang Stadium in Staint Petersburg should reach 18,000, as required by the league authorities.

It may also become the most bizarre stadium in terms of seating layout. That’s the outcome of its unique history and location. It was built as a baseball stadium, thus the old north stand around north-eastern corner and room for expansion primarily on the opposite end. It’s also equipped with a field lying just 30 meters away from Tampa Bay waters, leaving no free space in the east.

New double-tiered stands would be located along the west and south sides of the field. Their architecture is to be inspired by local maritime traditions, specifically sailboats. You’ll notice the masts, sails and hull. This design by Populous and Icon Venue Group will offer majority of the fans a fantastic view of Tampa Bay.