StadiumDBNews: 2012
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StadiumDB.com: Happy New Year!
This has been our first year together. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did and hope to see you again starting tomorrow! Or the day after, if hangover doesn’t let go soon enough. Anyhow, have a great 2013!
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Rome: New information on AS Roma stadium unveiled
During a special press conference yesterday club and contractor representatives confirmed location and estimated the time frame for a ‘stadium second to none’. Design is yet to be created.
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Madrid: Bernabéu to become third largest stadium?
Spain’s leading newspaper Marca suggests that Real Madrid’s stadium will be smaller than only two other football venues worldwide, as soon as expansion ends. This seems a bit selective, if not untrue at all, though…
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Chicago: Fire stadium pulling public finances down
It was supposed to bring new life to Bridgeview, one of Chicago’s suburbs. But instead, Toyota Park stadium proved an anchor and may prove to be the reason of Bridgeview sinking now. A Chicago Tribune report.
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New stadiums: Japanese five
We’ve got stands covered with grass, a building between stands and pitch and a few more attractions. But quite frankly, these are just very decent stadia in Japan that we haven’t covered before, don’t know why…
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England: Sunderland evicts people for standing, fans still campaign to waive rules
As the club emphasizes, its actions are determined by legislation and safety. But many argue that people standing throughout the game pose no threat whatsoever and it’s the legislation that needs changing.
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Germany: Bundesliga stadium sponsor backs out
They’re not treated seriously and consulted in issues directly associated to their naming rights, so they seek to terminate the contract as soon as possible. This decision of Trolli is a hit for SpVgg Greuther Fürth, for whom the naming rights deal was the 2nd most valuable sponsorship.
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New stadiums: Mattersburg and Melk
Two minor, but very interesting venues from Austria. Both built recently and both aesthetically and functionally well above average. We wouldn’t mind to see more stadia like these growing…
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Belarus: National stadium design to be revealed in January
It won’t be bigger than current stands, but redeveloped Dinamo Stadion is to be more modern and meet new requirements. Shortlist of 5 concepts has been made from 20 competition entries and winner is to be announced in January.
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South Africa: Scandal over national stadium naming for 2013 Afcon
It’s only three weeks before Africa’s largest football tournament kicks off and tickets for some games, including the final, cannot be printed. It’s still not clear, how should the national stadium be called…
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London: Tender announced for Olympic Stadium revamp
Race to redevelop the centerpiece of 2012 Olympics begins despite no contract with West Ham signed yet. LLDC expects to shortlist 5 bidders and select winner that will reconstruct the stadium within 32 months.
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Have a wonderful Christmas!
It’s only our first Christmas here at StadiumDB.com, but we’ve already received so much from you and so we hope that each and every reader or facebook fan we have will enjoy every moment of this special time!
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Berlin: Yet another record-breaking Christmas singing
It’s almost 10 years since fans broke into the Union stadium for a Christmas reunion. Over the years this meeting has grown to the world’s largest Christmas carol singing taking place in a stadium. Yesterday saw yet another record broken.
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Russia: Pigs chosen to detect pyrotechnics?
Issue of flares is particularly close to Zenit Saint Petersburg, so no wonder this club is the one to turn to pigs for a solution. The animals were already tested and turned out very efficient in finding pyrotechnic materials hidden under clothes, RIA Novosti claims.
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Winnipeg: Bombers new stadium $10 million more expensive
Blue Bombers have just secured a commercial loan to increase their stadium spending by $10 million. All of it will be spent on improving the venue’s standard. Club officials expect the spending to pay back very soon.
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Brazil: Second opening, this time in Belo Horizonte
Another opening in less than a week and just like before – it’s not actually fit for a game yet, but formally finished. This time it’s the famous Mineirão, probably most renowned stadium after Maracana.
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Poland: Work officially starts in Lublin
First nods went into the frozen ground at what used to be Lublin’s sugar factory and will be the city’s largest football stadium. Municipality took this opportunity to publish updated renderings.
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Houston: World’s widest screen to be installed
It makes you want to think: what next? Because the new Reliant Stadium giant screen will be just 20% shorter than the football pitch itself. Expected to be delivered within the next 8 months.
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New design: Stadion Taman BMW
No, it has nothing to do with car manufacturing BMW, that’s just an abbreviation used by Indonesians. Otherwise the approved venue’s temporary name would be unreasonably long.
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St. Petersburg: Good pace, construction ready in late 2015?
This is the optimistic scenario, possible only if contractors aren’t changed and don’t work slower than they do now. Then October 2015 is the expected deadline for the arena that was due in late 2009…
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New stadiums: Schweinfurt, Kiel and twice Mannheim
One stadium is dedicated to a Nazi, causing no sympathy from Maccabi Haifa (you don’t say…). Another went through a tornado and war bombings, but is still kicking after over 100 years in play. And the two from Mannheim, well, they are. All worth a look!
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England: New inquest into Hillsborough to begin
High Court has overturned a ruling that the death of 96 Liverpool fans in the Hillsborough disaster was accidental, and a new criminal investigation into the 1989 stadium tragedy was ordered by the government on Wednesday.
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England: Hull owners consider leaving KC Stadium
After failed attempt to buy the stadium from municipal authorities, Hull City AFC hope to move away. One condition is reaching promotion back to the Premier League, BBC reports.
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Cardiff: Millennium Stadium to get artificial turf?
Ever since its opening, the natural pitch has been criticised. Current model is very expensive to maintain and so a move towards fully synthetic field is considered, according to BBC.
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Brazil: Very festive, but was this an opening?
Some 40,000 people came to opening ceremony of Brazil's first World Cup venue yesterday. And it was great – this is the message that went global. But it wasn't all that fun for locals, who were pushed out of the stadium by police forces.
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France: LFP closes Bastia stadium indefinitely after... nothing happened
Wednesday's game against Marseille was played behind closed doors as supporters were banned from the game. They still provided quite a show for their club outside the ground and for this reason LFP decided to close Stade Armand-Cesari until further notice.
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England: Netting suggested to secure players
After decades of removing barriers between players and fans a counter-proposition was made by PFA, footballers' organisation which fears players might not be safe enough. But members themselves don't all seem convinced.
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Coventry: City ready to leave Ricoh Arena
Two potential stadiums are taken into account. What seems less and less probable is the team staying at the current location. They simply cannot afford it, BBC reports.
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Italy: Away-day instant star
He's not the first of his kind, but it seems no-one before him received so much media attention. One week he's just a supporter, the other he's giving interviews to overseas TV networks. While all he did was going to a football game.
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Germany: Controversial safety regulations approved, what now?
Yesterday 36 top clubs voted on proposed safety regulation changes with vast majority in favour. Many fans see this as clamp-down on fan culture, but others are encouraged by events of past few weeks. What's changing inside German stadia?
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Poland: Work to begin on two 15,000-seaters
With largest stadiums already built ahead of Euro 2012, works in smaller cities are still under way to improve sports infrastructure. Lublin and Tychy are two latest addition to the process as construction is about to start in both cities.
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Belfast: Planning application submitted as planned
After weeks of consultations, Irish Football Association filed their planning application for Windsor Park redevelopment. If things continue to go along plans, construction should start in September.
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London: Leyton Orient fans against Olympic Stadium move
Despite having been rejected by the LLDC, Leyton Orient still hope to share Olympic Stadium with West Ham United. Their supporters apparently think the exact opposite with some 60% against, according to Leyton Orient Fans Trust.
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Bulgaria: Plovdiv authorities seek foreign help with stadiums
The country's second largest city host some of the largest sports venues, but cannot afford to renovate them. Spanish investors were supposed to help, but didn't. Now the city offers partnership to... Qatari government and hopes for EU subsidies, Novinite.com reports.
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New construction: Santa Clara Stadium
Simple structure, no roof and yet it's among the most expensive stadiums ever to be built. How so? Starting today we're going to show you future NFL addition, Santa Clara Stadium.
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Rotterdam: De Kuip campaigners aren't giving up
After Feyenoord called their plans unrealistic, campaigners opting to save current De Kuip stadium worked hard on their vision and improved it. Plans is still the same, but better – with budget, sightlines and construction method detailed. It seems Feyenoord got a hard nut to crack.
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Belgrade: Smaller club to build city's best venue?
Though Crvena Zvezda has got big plans towards Marakana, new showcase stadium in Belgrade may be built somewhere else. Third biggest club OFK Beograd presents their plan to the city.
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New stadium: Porto Alegre is all blue
Or at least was yesterday, when blue light was shooting high in the sky, covering Porto Alegre's skyline. Blue light from a stadium that has blue roof, blue seats, blue facades, blue floors and walls...
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Istanbul: Beşiktaş given green light to rebuild stadium
Although the club is in serious financial difficulties, it doesn't intend to wait any longer with its project. Not now, when they received approval they waited so long for. Ground breaking has already been announced for May 2013.
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Warsaw: National Stadium set for volleyball?
First volleyball game at Poland's largest stadium was to be played in September, but didn't happen. Plans are still in place, though. It may be a World League or 2014 European Championship fixture to be Poland's first major game in this discipline played at a stadium.
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New designs: Mystery of Minneapolis
We know the budget, groundbreaking and opening time, construction tender has just began. But despite all that we don't really know, how will this stadium look. In this case even the winning architects may completely change their vision. Or actually, they have to.
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Moscow: Luzhniki set for demolition after all?
Though official bid to FIFA said the national stadium will only be refurbished, it seems Moscow's Luzhniki will go down completely and get modern replacement. No final decision is in place yet, but sports minister confirms this is to be accepted.
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Euro 2020: Meet all potential cities
UEFA hasn't set any guidelines for Euro 2020 host-city selection yet. But should they follow the requirements used until 2016, it would mean a massive list of 177 stadiums throughout Europe could apply for the event.
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UEFA: Information leak? CL finals for Berlin and Milan?
Official decision is to be announced in March, but two newspapers from Germany and Italy share the same leak – deal is already done, Berlin will host the 2015 Champions League final with Milan following in 2016.
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UEFA: Euro 2020 goes pan-European, final at Wembley?
Executive Committee decided today that Euro 2020 will be played in major cities of many European countries instead of single or joint country hosts. English FA took the opportunity and already offered Wembley for the final.
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England: Darlington Arena comes back to life?
The 25,000-seater that proved to be Darlington FC's doom has been abandoned this year as the club dissolved. But as it was bought by local rugby side, it's expected to start operating again soon.
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London: West Ham chosen again, again with no certainty
Feels like deja vu, when we see LLDC select West Ham United as preferred bidder for the Olympic Stadium. But again both sides need to agree on tenancy terms and to date there have been many differences.
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Moscow: Dynamo stadium costs halved
Soon we should know the planned look of VTB Arena after design amendments. The ground will be smaller than anticipated and entire complex's cost is to fall by 50%.
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Swansea: Planning application for 12,000 extra seats in early 2013
Great news for Swans supporters as currently their home ground is unable to cope with high demand. The club are hoping to submit their planning application in February or March 2013 and increase capacity by over 50%.
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Canada: Fireworks damaged roof of BC Place?
Forbidden during football games, pyrotechnics at concerts are used quite commonly. And comfortably enough to be approved even in a completely covered arena like BC Place. But after they’ve hit the roof during Paul McCartney’s concert, some elements may need replacement.
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USA: Best seats in San Jose already sold out
Construction works started just a month ago, but all skyboxes and business seats are sold out already. It seems Earthquakes will be considering expansion of the most expensive zones at their new venue before it even opens.
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Brazil: People protest Maracanã’s privatization
The country’s most iconic stadium in Rio de Janeiro is set for privatization next year. This has caused outrage among citizens, who claim no-one should single-handedly own this venue.
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Africa: Senegal’s national stadium closed for a year
National team will not use Senegal’s national stadium for 12 months and will also pay a hefty fine for riots that erupted in October’s fixture against Ivory Coast.
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Greece: Panathinaikos unable to pay floodlight bills at Olympic Stadium
Most successful team in Greek history is currently struggling not to fold. Recently the stadium manager suggested ‘PAO’ should consider playing only in daytime to avoid extra costs. This is not an option, though.
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Germany: 12:12 or why did the stadiums get so quiet
It started in a few stadiums, but is now sweeping the country. It’s not a trend, it’s a protest against what fans see as unjust. So they don’t support their teams for the first 12 minutes and 12 seconds of each game. Why the symbolism?
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New Zealand: Citizens mock ‘unique’ stadium
It was supposed to be a breakthrough, but Dunedin inhabitants aren’t happy that they had to pay for it. And now that it’s generating loss and proving harder to operate, many used the occasion to ridicule Forsyth Barr Stadium.
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New design: Nieuw Stadion Heracles
Not all that new, really. But it seems the project is finally about to get built, so it’s about time we presented it to you at StadiumDB.com. Will this be the new 15,000-seater of Heracles Almelo?
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Glasgow: New ‘Sports Direct Arena’ at Ibrox?
Quite unexpected, news of naming rights negotiations between Rangers and Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley come from Daily Mail. Could the controversial move happen?
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Palestine: FIFA commits to rebuild stadium in Gaza
They helped build it and renovate after one bombing, they will do it again. FIFA pledges to aid reconstruction of Palestine Stadium, destroyed in Nov 19 bombings.
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England: Storm over Ricoh Arena
Will Coventry City FC go bust or lose tenancy for not paying rent for almost a year? Is the managing company in debt as well? Does the club still have a chance to buy the venue? Questions keep arising as tension grows over Ricoh Arena’s future.
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Sweden: Fans started demolition of Råsunda
This was the last of a whole series of farewells that fans and authorities bade to their beloved stadium. On Sunday some 5,000 people came to collect souvenir, symbolically starting the demolition process.
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New stadiums: Three-pack from Poland
Zielona Góra has a stand that actually dances with the crowd (wasn’t safe, so they closed it for a while). Sopot has a stand that has a shape no other stadium has. While Gliwice… we just needed this one to make three.
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Jakarta: Preparatory works start on new stadium!
“The stadium will seat 50,000 people, but if they jostle, it would accommodate 100,000 of them”, said governor Joko Widodo today as works start on Jakarta’s new major stadium.
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Scotland: Rangers outgrew their league again
Just after proving they’re still a powerhouse at home games, Rangers have done it again, this time for away fixture. Today they were to play against Elgin City, but won’t, because the host club sold way too many tickets to provide a safe event.
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London: Arsenal extended Emirates deal
It isn’t clear at this point how much of the new contract will go for stadium naming rights, but overall the deal with Emirates is worth £150 million and will see ‘Emirates Stadium’ at Ashburton Grove until 2028.
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New construction: Stadion Čair
All over Serbia new stadiums are being built or renovated so it’s about time first construction site from this country gets a presentation here, at StadiumDB.com. For starters we give you Niš, the country’s third biggest city.
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South Africa: Sponsor wins battle over national stadium name
It wasn’t until High Court’s decision that First National Bank secured its rights to be the naming rights owner for Soccer city. The latter name may no longer be used in official communication by third parties.
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Porto: Suicide at Estádio do Dragão?
Terrifying sight unveiled to employees of FC Porto who found the club’s commercial director shot inside the stadium. Most probable scenario is suicide, but the case is still examined, Record reports.
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Germany: Stadium isn’t a zoo cage – protest in Offenbach
During their away fixture in Wiesbaden at least five supporters were injured after cutting their bodies on the fence separating them from the pitch. This caused outrage as they weren’t attempting to invade the field, but celebrating a goal of their side, op-online.de reports.
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Moscow: Luzhniki set for demolition?
Unexpected news comes from Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko, who suggests the most famous Russian stadium may be demolished ahead of 2018 World Cup. So far it was only suggested to get a renovation.
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Luxembourg: Only stadium with running track to be demolished?
National athletic federation alarms that Luxembourg may soon lose its only venue capable of hosting international tournaments in track and field. Stade Josy Barthel is to be remodeled as a football-only stadium.
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London: Olympic Stadium to cost even £200m more?!
West Ham’s tenancy offer raises more doubts after it came out the real cost of Olympic Stadium might get close to £700m with football conversion included. Is a multi-sport vision more viable?
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Scotland: Rangers in a league of their own
It’s still the Third Division, but what the supporters are showing at Ibrox has absolutely no match. With average attendance at 47,600 people Rangers are among the most attended clubs in Europe.
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Italy: Footballer banned from stadium for solidarity with fan
Justice in Italy may prove hard to understand to foreigners. Just yesterday a football player was banned for 3 years after he expressed solidarity with a supporter, who he thinks isn’t guilty of the accused crime.
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Austria: Rapid preparing to relocate
They were planning to redevelop their current venue, but this turns out to be even 40% more expensive than building anew in a different spot. Possibly already in 2014 Rapid will be opening their new ground.
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Interview: A next generation stadium
It is to combine the traditional expectations of football supporters with modern commercial events. It’s a breakthrough and Zlatan’s opening game isn’t the reason. What is? Find out as we interview Adam Wycichowski, one of the creators of Friends Arena.
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Madrid: Real gets Green light for Bernabéu revamp
Municipal authorities have amended their General Plan for Urban Development to allow the stadium grow higher and wider. In return Real will give extra land for public use. But which design will they choose for their stadium overhaul?
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Russia: Construction on Samara World Cup stadium to start in 2014
Local authorities confirmed their timeline for the World Cup venue. Design should be ready within one year from now with construction starting in 2014 and ending when FIFA demands it – in mid-2016.
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Tokyo: Zaha Hadid selected for new National Olympic Stadium
Surprise? Of all the 11 bids Japan Sport Council chose the one from Hadid, who has no experience in football stadium design. All indications say that after this venue gets done, she will have quite some! She just won one of the most prestigious competitions worldwide.
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New stadium: Friends Arena
The Swedes just opened their new national stadium with a smashing 4:2 against England. But this venue has so many impressive features, it didn’t really need the win to be unique.
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Brazil: Operation ‘big lift’ at Maracana set to begin
It’s going to be one of the largest membrane roofs worldwide. 25 alpinists have just finished their training sessions ahead of a mighty task – working as high as 40 meters above ground level to create the structure.
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England: Stoke City planning stadium expansion
Decision was made public yesterday and already today the club opened a two-week public consultation process. They hope to apply for planning application by the end of November.
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Kazan: Worker killed in crane collapse
Fatal accident took place yesterday at the construction site in Kazan’s Savinovo district. 25-year-old worker fell 35 meters down as his crane collapsed. Other workers say their safety isn’t concerned as the venue is far behind schedule.
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England: Southend’s new stadium in 2014?
Fans have a right to doubt the news as they’ve been hearing it too many times already. Their new stadium was to be built already in 2010, but works haven’t started yet. So, why would this change now? Echo-News.co.uk has more.
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England: Further clubs support safe standing
The list of clubs appealing to test and potentially allow standing areas back inside English stadia is growing. Back in January it was just Aston Villa, now it’s 10 clubs in England and Scottish Premier League.
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Germany: Fans don’t feel safe?
Temperature around German football safety has been growing for months and is almost as hot as the flares set off by fans inside stadiums. Flares much hated by football governing bodies who suggested a new safety system, claiming people don’t feel safe at football games. They only forgot to ask the people, whether this is the case…
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New: Netanya Stadium
Israel’s newest stadium is celebrating its first week in operation today. Designed by the country’s top sports architects it may indeed be the most beautiful in Israel at least until further openings, expected in 2013…
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Brazil: FIFA confirmed Confederation Cup venues
All six stadiums submitted by Brazil were accepted by FIFA, even though two met with severe criticism a few months back for construction delays. Now we present current status (and photos) of all the chosen venues.
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London: Further delays troubling Olympic Stadium
Still no future tenant and no prospect of having one soon. What’s even worse, time for reconfiguration has just been prolonged by two years, ruining the image of ‘Olympic legacy’.
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England: Bolton plan commercial development around Reebok Stadium
Three office blocks and expansion of the main stand at Reebok Stadium – that’s the plan in general. With extra revenues and more chances for the community Wanderers are ready to spend £100 million.
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Serbia: Stadium atop shopping centre almost ready
It already has the pitch and some seats and will be opened in early 2013, Novosti.rs inform. Looks like nothing special until one realizes it’s actually on the 4th floor of a shopping centre in Belgrade.
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Poland: Football association appeals for standing places and pyrotechnics inside stadiums
In an unprecedented statement, newly elected vice-president of PZPN (Polish FA) suggested that it’s time to change legislation that has been created mostly for Euro 2012. According to the FA it doesn’t rightly address safety issues.
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Bulgaria: New national stadium has to wait?
Prime Minister Boyko Borisov rejected plans to build a new national stadium, claiming such an investment would make no sense at this point. Most events, he says, can be hosted by new indoor hall.
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Washington: Council member pushes for new football stadium
Washington DC seems to be moving towards a new football-only stadium. According to councilor and influential community leader Jack Evans, it’s not even a matter of economical viability, the city should treat this as a cultural asset.
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Norway: Even more legal pyrotechnics inside stadiums?
One of very few countries with such an understanding for fan culture. But supporters aren’t stopping with what they already have because they still see some regulations as inappropriate. And hope to make it even better next season.
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Sweden: Fans bid farewell to Råsunda
That would be it – last derby in September and yesterday the last league game at the historical stadium that is now awaiting demolition. Supporters dedicated their last performances to their spiritual home before they switch to Friends Arena.
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New design: York Community Stadium
Was supposed to be done around now. But isn’t and won’t be constructed until mid-2015. But when it’s ready, York will Get a very decent new stadium, quite the opposite of what fans call projects carried out by architects on the job.
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Los Angeles: Last obstacle removed before Farmers Field construction?
Entertainment giant AEG reached a settlement with stadium opposition among residents and social campaigners. For $15 million invested in affordable housing the group may proceed with Farmers Field in downtown L.A., Los Angeles Daily News reports.
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New stadium: 8km Stadionu
Opened less than 2 months ago, it’s Azerbaijan’s newest stadium. Fresh enough not to have a permanent tenant yet, but old enough to have its first FIFA World Cup behind. Maybe it was a women’s under-17 tournament, but which country builds new stadiums for this kind of event anyway?
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Wolverhampton: Molineux more fan-friendly
Wolves made their stadium more colourful and gave the colours a meaning. Now instead of dull passageways fans walk by large graphics that illustrate what the club means to people.
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Russia: Yet another location change for World Cup venue
And a massive cost rise following with the stadium already priced at more than double the initial amount. All this before any construction work has even began.
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Poland: First conference about legalizing pyrotechnics inside stadiums
Initiative came from supporters’ association of Lechia Gdansk, but was soon caught up by Ministry officials who registered for the event. First ever conference about pyrotechnics will present two models of possible legal use inside stadia.
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New designs: One of them will be ‘the best stadium in the world’
When Japan Sport Council announced plans to build a new national stadium , they made themselves clear: it has to change Japan and sports architecture in general. Here’s how 11 top contenders want to achieve that goal.
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Moscow: VTB Arena design scaled down
As it didn’t get on the final list of host venues announced by FIFA, VTB Arena no longer needs the 45,000 capacity. Architects are now scaling it down to save cost and improve comfort of remaining 33,000 seats.
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London: NFL to steal Olympic Stadium from West Ham?
This comes unexpected, but mayor Boris Johnson is in talks with NFL over a potential tenancy deal. Despite talks being at an early stage, they’re described to be encouraging. Well, not for West Ham, who remain the preferred bidder at this point.
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Africa: Malawi latest addition to China’s ‘stadium diplomacy’
It’s not easy to find a country in Africa that didn’t get their largest stadium as a ‘gift’ from China. One of the last blank spots was Malawi which, as AfricaReview.com reports, has just signed an agreement with Chinese government and will be getting a 40,000-capacity venue in the capital.
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Romania: Another 30,000-seater, this time in Craiova
Ironically, today the city hasn’t got a football club, but will have a new stadium for football. Demolition of the historical Ion Oblemenco should start within weeks and end by the end of 2012. Then construction is to commence – evz.ro reports.
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Warsaw: National Stadium to get out of the red in 2015?
Surely no sooner, but even 2015 is just a loose estimate given by Sports Minister Joanna Mucha. According to her, for at least one more year the ground will still be a construction site, even if most of it is already operable.
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South Africa: Durban stadium's finances disclosed
For the first time Durban municipality revealed the finances behind Moses Mabhida Stadium's operations. And it's all red since 2010 with no prospect for improvement until as late as 2014-2015. Any good news, then? Yes, they're doing much worse in Cape Town...
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Canada: Historical urinal, anyone?
Pieces of the pitch or goalposts are a frequent item when old stadiums are being made to souvenirs. But giant screen, pitch lighting or urinal troughs – that's not something fans usually buy for souvenirs. Or is it?
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Edinburgh: National rugby stadium to get naming rights deal?
The country’s largest venue may get a new name as Scottish Rugby Union aim at finding a good deal for Murrayfield’s naming rights, the BBC reports.
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Canada: Obstructed views latest problem at Investors Group Field?
People who already bought their season tickets for some upper tier seats are receiving large discounts or offers of relocation. It turns out that one cannot see the sidelines from parts of the stadium, Winnipeg Sun reveals.
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Brazil: Yet another stadium in Rio!
After new Maracana and the Olympic stadium it's time for Vasco da Gama football club. Their new venue is to hold 43,000 people and will be ready in 2015 or 2016, Associated Press reports.
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New design: Hardturm
Was to be ready for Euro 2008, but new football stadium for Zurich still exists only on paper. This week we found out how it should look when ready. When would that be? No sooner than 2017.
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South Africa: Durban stadium needs a tenant
Brand new Moses Mabhida Stadium was built for the 2010 World Cup just next to the existing Kings Park. But to date it stands empty most of the time, while its older neighbour gets most of the events. City authorities are hoping to change that – Independent Online reports.
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New country: Albania
With our last, 25th new country in recent weeks, we return to Europe, where we started from in September. This time to the most important Balkan country that our database lacked before. Welcome to Albania!
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England: Chief Constable resigns after Hillsborough cover-up accusations
It's been years since first public accusations were raised against him, but only now, forced by his superiors, he resigned. Sir Norman Bettison assures he will assist the investigators to prove he didn't work on pushing the blame on fans after Hillsborough disaster.
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New construction: New Earthquakes Stadium
They started with an earthquake or close to it with their record-breaking groundbreaking attendance. Over 6,000 people came to start the work, but as much fun as this must have been, there's some serious construction work to do if they are to have a new 18,000-seater in 2014.
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New country: Syria
Though now overwhelmed by war, Syrian cities were the ones we missed very much in our database and decided to change it. With newest photos dating back to one year before the war, let's see Syria at peace and hope this is how the country will look soon.
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Warsaw: Prime Minister reveals findings after postponed England match
Scandal behind the postponed Poland-England game ends with an anticlimax. Internal audit in Ministry of Sports and National Sports Centre reveals that “everyone lacked determination”, but no-one is really guilty of 58,000 people being left out in the rain.
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Lyon: Works start on new stadium, again
It's already the second time Olympique celebrate preparatory works at their new site outside Lyon. First time it ended with initial preparations only, this time preparations are to be done for good, allowing construction to commence at last.
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England: All police officers connected to Hillsborough disaster to be checked
Independent Police Complaint Commission received names of 1,444 police officers who either were at Hillsborough on April 15 1989, or have been involved in investigation afterwards.
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Indonesia: Jakarta to get a modern football stadium
Thought they already have a large national stadium, the city's largest club should get a ground of their own – claims Governor of Jakarta as he announces a major sports project for the capital.
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Germany: Last stand in Essen ahead of schedule
As early as in February should the southern stand be ready in Essen, 6 months ahead of schedule. This is the good news. Bad news is that fans will most likely not be able to use it until next season anyway...
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New country: Lebanon
We're almost at our goal of 25 new countries. Now we stay for a day in Lebanon where the recently renovated stadiums stand out from the crowd. Sometimes literally, like the ground sticking out to the sea...
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USA: Man in critical condition after falling from escalator at MetLife Stadium
Third reported accident that includes falling from a significant height at MLS games this season. This time at NY's MetLife Stadium, where man fell 30 feet down from an escalator and was transported to hospital in critical condition, New York Post reports.
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San Jose: Record-breaking groundbreaking
This won't be just one symbolic shovel into the ground. No way, San Jose Earthquakes are going global with a record of over 5,000 people starting work on the new stadium on Sunday. And make no mistake, they don't mean construction workers – everyone's invited!
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New countries: Jordan and Iraq
None of them is associated with football too much. So wrong! Both Iraq and Jordan have quite some football traditions and passion for the game, pictured with our first doses of stadia from those lands.
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England: Ticket prices breaking new records
And not the kind of records supporters would wish to see. First time ever average price for the cheapest seats in top four leagues (!) exceeded £20. That means ticket prices in England are rising at 4 times the speed of inflation – BBC Sport alarms.
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Paris: Parc des Princes renovation to start in November
Works financed by Paris municipality are expected to start within a month. Next year the Qatari owners are to take over and start their redevelopment. Still, the stadium won't reach its desired capacity in time for Euro 2016.
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Australia: Waiter bringing food to your seat?
Yesterday's Victory-Adelaide game was the first to have waiters delivering meals ordered with smartphone application from the stands. If seen as a success, the service may grow, Herald Sun reveals.
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Lille: Investor furious over naming rights failure
Isidore Partouche claims he is even willing to completely withdraw from financing Lille OSC (he owns 40% shares) if his naming rights offer isn't treated seriously. He demands a reasonable approach from the municipality who own the new ground.
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Poland: Scandal after rain paralyzed new national stadium
It wasn’t a storm, it wasn’t a downpour. It was regular rainfall that proved enough to paralyze one of Europe’s most modern stadiums. A series of wrong decisions or misinformation led to Poland-England qualifier being postponed.
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London: Still no decision over Olympic Stadium
Though it was expected yesterday, final decision over the 80,000-seater’s legacy is yet to be announced. West Ham is still the most likely bidder, but their solution for bringing fans closer to the pitch will most likely be scrapped, Guardian reports.
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Liverpool: Decision reached, LFC stay put!
No new stadium in Stanley Park, at least for The Reds. Managing director Ian Ayre announced that the club are staying at their 'spiritual home' with plans of a major redevelopment being at early stage.
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New country: Oman
Welcome to the Middle East. Our first country is one that doesn't get much attention football-wise. This doesn't mean Oman didn't deserve a mention with its growing sports facilities...
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London: Olympic Stadium misses out on Stirling Prize
Modest science lab instead of the giant stadium in East London – this was the selection of British Architects' institute with the 2012 Stirling Prize. Olympic Stadium has to settle for being shortlisted.
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London: Tottenham moving to Wembley or Olympic Stadium?
This kind of move is being discussed with both the FA and LLDC. North London team might be forced to find a replacement if they decide to speed up their new stadium project, Daily Mail informs.
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New country: Kenya
And we’re leaving Africa, but with a bang. Largest stadium from one of the most important countries is our venue no. 1350. Its redevelopment has just ended two weeks ago. Done, of course, by the Chinese…
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Hungary: Government proposes new national stadium
And up to 10 other sports venues around it. This extensive complex would be built in the place or in the vicinity of current Ferenc Puskas Stadium in Budapest. With 65,000 seats the new stadium may become one of the best in Europe.
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Poland: Euro 2012 venue bans… bananas
Gdansk’s new PGE Arena is the only stadium in Poland and surely a rare case worldwide, where a specific ban on bananas has been introduced. To make it even more interesting, it’s said to prevent racism in the stands. Sport.pl reports.
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Brazil: Will FIFA avoid ‘ghost viewers’?
It seems impossible to get rid of, but FIFA attempts to minimize it. And by ‘it’ we mean ghost viewers – with tickets sold, but left unused. Number of such spots may reach several thousand per game.
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New countries: Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique
When someone mentions South Africa, you obviously think of the Republic. Quite rightly, but these stadiums show that there’s more to see than just RSA if you’re southbound…
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Italy: Lecce supporters launch unique stadium tours
With help from their club and other parties, supporters trust Noi Lecce ran their first “Visit the stadium” initiative last Friday, inviting youngest fans for a visit like no other, noilecce.it informs.
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Russia: Rostov to create a new heart for 2018
Today the pulse of Rostov beats on the north bank of river Don. But with the new stadium planned to become first major project on the other side, authorities are hopeful to put some life into the almost pristine land.
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Newcastle: Historical name returns, down with Sports Direct Arena
Who would have thought that supporters will win their beloved name St. James’ Park by a naming rights deal? New 4-year contract with Wonga guarantees that the ground will return to its 120-year-old name. BBC reports.
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Italy: Roma confirm plans for new stadium
Though supporters would probably prefer actions over words, at least the latter are still reassuring. The club is said to have shortlisted three locations and chosen the architects for their new venue, Associated Press reports.
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New countries: Equatorial Guinea and Gabon
Those may be among the smallest and least populated countries of Africa, but they also are among the richest in their region. Still, getting shiny new stadiums was possible thanks to Chinese ‘friendship’.
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Qatar: First stadium construction to start in 2013
Education City Stadium will be the first among Qatar’s 2022 World Cup venues to get under way. But this doesn’t mean other projects aren’t going forward, according to ArabianBusiness.com.
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Athens: Panathinaikos has to forget big dreams?
New 42,000-seater may never happen for the Greek powerhouse. Future stadium for ‘The Greens’ is to be downscaled significantly, enough to lose highest category by UEFA’s standards.
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New countries: Gambia, Mali and Burkina Faso
Today three national stadiums from western Africa get their first presentations as we start our journey throughout that continent. Even if the sound exotic, it’s surely worth checking out where did Mali earn their 27th spot in FIFA rankings.
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Norway: National stadium awaiting redevelopment
Today Ullevål in Oslo has three stands with two tiers each and one that is significantly lower. This will change with that last one awaiting to grow and match the remaining three, Reuters reports.
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USA: Three new stadiums for MLS?
And each much anticipated with Washington and San Jose waiting for their first football-specific venues, while the MLS looks to give New York their second franchise.
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Russia: Samara looks for designers, stadium to cost $320 million
The southern city of Samara is to announce pre-design tender soon for their 44,000 stadium. Future 2018 World Cup arena is expected to cost $320 million and its location has changed since the bid book sent to FIFA.
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London: Orient hope name change will increase their chances for Olympic Stadium
Now Leyton Orient, the club’s owner Barry Hearn suggests it should be called London Orient to become part of the Olympic Legacy. Is this attempt to strengthen Orient’s bid a good one? Hearn intentionally ignores supporters’ sentiments on that issue.
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Netherlands: Euro 2000 venue not for sale – at least to the club
Dutch city of Arnhem is putting up Gelredome, their largest stadium, up for sale. It would seem natural that tenant club Vitesse is interested, but the football side cannot obtain their home venue due to a special clause.
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Switzerland: First game with legal pyrotechnics in November?
FC Zurich vs Servette – this may become a historical fixture no matter the score. If fans manage to get approval from police and fire dept, they’ll be allowed to light pyrotechnics legally first time in history. This is possible after Zurich passed new laws on the issue.
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Munich: TSV will finally manage to escape from Allianz Arena?
Though it’s been a few years since such plans were announced, TSV1860’s attempts haven’t succeeded so far. Now club asks Munich authorities for permission to build a new ground far from the disliked Allianz Arena.
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Albania: National stadium construction may start by November
There are still two permissions to obtain, but demolition of the existing stands and construction of the “black-red diamond” are expected to start within the next few weeks, as Gazetën Shqiptare reports.
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Singapore: Largest dome in history going up
With progress visible nearly every day, Singapore’s super dome for new national stadium will reach its final size in 2013. Despite lower capacity of the venue itself, the roof will overgrow any other stadium.
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Scotland: No football for a year at Hampden
Scottish national stadium at Hampden Park is to be closed for a year. During that year temporary running track will be installed and then dismantled as Glasgow is to host Commonwealth Games 2014.
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New country: Trinidad and Tobago
Sounds exotic? It may, since there aren’t many countries with shark as traditional meal. But it should also sound football-friendly with an 8-league system on those two small islands and two football world cups in just 10 years.
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Moscow: Worker falls to his death at Spartak’s stadium
With more and more works done at significant heights, risk is growing as well. Unfortunately, tragic accident happened at the Tushino construction site in Moscow today.
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London: Wimbledon coming home?
Second proposal to build a new ground for AFC Wimbledon at Plough Lane has been submitted. In total there are three bids with only one ruling out the club’s return to its roots, as Wimbledon Guardian reports.
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Moscow: Construction at Spartak going well
Good news continue for Moscow’s Spartak stadium. The construction site received positive notes from Stroinadzor, the construction supervision body. This comes just two days after FIFA selected the ground for 2018 World Cup.
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Madrid: Real presented four finalists for Bernabeu revamp
During the General Assembly that has just ended in Madrid, four final concepts of the future Estadio Santiago Bernabeu were presented for public viewing. World's best architects will now await the selection of one of their works.
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Rotterdam: Feyenoord refuse to talk about 'saving De Kuip' any more
After last week's meeting between Feyenoord and “Save De Kuip” campaigners both sides seem to be further from convincing the others than they were before. The club announced they will not hold additional meetings about the campaign.
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New countries: Laos and Brunei
Our last stop in Asia – rural Laos and wealthy Brunei. Though they seem quite the opposite, it's Laos who has a modern national stadium, even if Brunei's is bigger.
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Germany: Record choreography in Hamburg
Supporters of HSV decided to celebrate their club's 125th anniversary in a unique way. With budget in excess of €70,000 they've managed to prepare 45,000 banners that created the largest tifo of its kind ever.
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USA: Minneapolis picks HKS Architects for their superstadium
Yet another American football venue with budget close to $ 1 billion. This time it's Minneapolis who plan to follow Dallas and Indianapolis as they appoint the same architects...
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Russia: FIFA drops two cities ahead of 2018 World Cup
Yesterday complete list of 11 host cities was presented. Without Krasnodar and Yaroslavl that were dropped despite advancing with their stadium projects. Another venue lost chances in Moscow.
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USA: Council supports Farmers Field
Worth $1 billion, new stadium for Los Angeles is one step closer to being built. City Council voted unamously in support of the project yesterday, as Bloomberg Businessweek reports.
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New design: Rock Stadium
Massive stand laying on a mountain slope and three other hidden in a sunken bowl – this way Al Ain's large 40,000-seater will be almost symbiotically integrated into Jabel Hafeet mountain.
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France: Lens stadium renamed
Built almost 80 years ago, Stade Bollaert has just received its second patron, recently deceased mayor André Delelis. From now on it will be known as Stade Bollaert – Delelis.
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Ukraine: Two Euro 2012 stadiums for sale?
Quite an unusual offer may soon be on the table with new privatization law to be voted on. If it passes, numerous public companies will go on sale, among them the arenas in Kyiv and Lviv, as Kommersant-Ukraina reports.
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New design: Udinese given green light to reconstruct their stadium
Plans to build three new stands at Stadio Friuli just received approval from both football and Olympic governing bodies. And after Udinese has already claimed 99-year lease of the ground from the city, works are to start within months.
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Scotland: Aberdeen trying to relocate their new stadium project
Despite statements that the design had been ‘killed off’, there still seems to be a chance for Aberdeen FC’s new stadium. Not at Loirston Loch, but a number of other locations will be examined, according to AFC official website.
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New countries: Bangladesh and Nepal
Today we visit two of the poorest countries worldwide and show their national stadiums. But poor or not, these have a lot of history behind them and deserve a visit, even if only online.
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Russia: St Petersburg’s stadium even more expensive?
Quite a long time to go with at least two years of construction works and Zenit’s future stadium is again estimated to cost well more than expected. It’s already among most expensive ones in history.
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New country: India (2)
Yesterday we presented three of India’s most impressive venues. Today we do the opposite and show some of the scariest (we actually find this word legitimate) stadia that are still used for major fixtures, despite their desperate cry for renovations.
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New country: India (1)
On our way to country no. 120 we stop in India, this time for two days. During day one we will only show you stadia that exceeded the 100,000 mark in attendance. Among them currently the largest venue in the world...
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England: Norwich examining, but not expanding stadium just yet
Norwich City commissioned a study from the University of East Anglia. They now know that expanding Carrow Road by 7,000 is viable, but not necessarily now, when the team have to establish themselves in the Premier League. BBC report.
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Italy: Cagliari with new stadium false-start
They already experienced trouble in late August with their new ground not being prepared for home games. Now Cagliari allowed their fans inside the ground despite negative opinions from local authorities. Game was called off and AS Roma given a walkover.
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Spain: Rayo-Real derby sabotaged
The galactic rival was coming to fight Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, but both sides witnessed a very unusual sight as part of floodlights weren’t working. Despite last-gasp attempts the game had to be postponed.
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Slovakia: New national stadium to finally get built?
Authorities in Bratislava have proven helpless in providing a new national stadium since 2008. This is when works were to start initially. Will the venue get built now, with private partners?
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England: Liverpool to announce Anfield revamp?
Rebuilding two stands to get 60,000 seats will cost some £150 million and this option is to be confirmed by Liverpool FC soon, Mail on Sunday reveals. New stadium would cost almost three times more.
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Poland: The boy who ran on pyrotechnics and chants
Dawid Zapisek became famous worldwide as Iker Cassilas bade farewell to his young fan last week. Dawid passed away on Tuesday and his funeral was like his life – full of pyrotechnics and chants about his beloved club. In the age of 14 he is perhaps the most quoted supporter in Poland.
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Wales: Swansea City start work on “hall of fame”
Though sounds rather impressive, it is to be quite modest in reality. Names of 100 club legends are to be put on one external piece of wall for public viewing, BBC writes.
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Barcelona: Referendum about Camp Nou future approved
But still quite distant with vote opening scheduled for 2014 at the earliest. Why so? Before any works start, “Blaugrana” need to reduce their debt. Their spending on a new venue may be in excess of €600 million.
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Poland: Lódź Project collapses before starting
This was to be Poland’s first public-private partnership to build a stadium. We now know it’s not happening as all three bidders withdrew their interest. Football club Widzew blames the city, city blames economy…
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France: “Geoffroy” will grow further
As the south stand is being slowly dismantled, mayor was able to convince councilors to approve his plan of increasing capacity in this part of Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. A modest increase, but an important one, too.
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New countries: Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan
Despite their considerable size, these two countries are somewhat unknown to people around the world. We cannot change this completely, but we can introduce some of their stadiums to our readers. Here they come. And worth mentioning – we now have 100 countries in Stadium DataBase!
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Valencia: Plans to restart works on hold (again)
Financial plan for further works fell apart – EFE press agency reports. Sources in Bankia, the project’s creditor, say requirements outlined by city authorities haven’t been met.
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UK: Fans appeal to stop using tragedies in chants
Whether it’s Munich, Heysel, Hillsborough or Irish famine, each of these tragedies have had reference in football chants. Enough is enough – sound both authorities and supporters as they appeal not to use someone’s tragedy as part of football banter.
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England: Coventry City owners buy half their stadium
It seems the Sky Blues may finally get out of the red with all debts paid off and finally having a share in the stadium they play in. Apparently not being part of the profits was among main reasons for the club losing money, Coventry Telegraph suggests.
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New country: Northern Ireland
Despite long and proud traditions, stadium in Belfast are in desperate need for renovations. And since they are to get some soon, checking out their current state me proof to be a good idea.
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London: Contractor chosen for chase one of Tottenham’s dream
McLaren Construction is to build new supermarket with additional space above it. This development is to precede Tottenham’s new stadium and should be finished by late 2013 or early 2014, The Construction Index reads.
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New country: Iceland
Italy lost 0:2 here in front of an overcrowded stadium packed with 20,000 people. But Iceland has a whole lot to show – magnificent volcanic landscapes, vocal supporters, funny goal celebrations and yes, some interesting stadia!
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London: LLDC and West Ham differ on Olympic Stadium vision
Could this harm negotiations over the future of Olympic Stadium? West Ham prefer to leave the existing roof, while London Legacy Development Company already outlined a different scheme. Telegraph reports.
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Poland: Almost half a century from record-breaking game
To date there were very few matches that drew larger crowds in Europe. And even fewer that would see the stake so low as the qualifying game between Górnik Zabrze and Austria Wien, watched by some 120,000 people.
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Marseille: Megacrawlers arriving at Vélodrome
There are Just a few of those in Europe. Two will soon start installing the roof of Marseille’s largest stadium. Each weighs 29 tons and can lift up to 1,250 tons of load, investor informs.
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StadiumDB.com: Discovering new lands!
We can’t afford trips around the World, but thankfully other people have already seen the places we would. Thanks to their photos and information upcoming weeks will see unprecedented pace in adding new countries to our database.
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Sweden: No new punishments against supporters for now
Swedish Attorney General dismissed all proposals submitted by former police commissioner that called for stricter legislation against hooliganism, DagensJuridik.se informs. Sweden retains its rather liberal approach.
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London: Olympic Stadium to host Rugby World Cup in 2015?
If a tenant is finally chosen for the ground’s legacy, this seems very likely. Rugby World Cup organisers are turning to venues that don’t host rugby day-to-day as only four rugby stadiums expressed interest in hosting the event, with 10-12 needed.
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Pakistan: President announces new world-class stadium for Islamabad
After not bringing even one medal from London Olympics authorities in Pakistan plan on developing sport infrastructure across the country. With a top-notch stadium built in the capital.
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Nigeria: How to ruin the most expensive stadium? That’s easy
Built almost a decade back for almost insane amount of money, Nigerian national stadium has been recently dominated by weeds and wild animals. And that’s no environmental project, that’s extreme negligence.
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Hillsborough: Families demand new inquest
Relatives of 96 victims met yesterday to discuss further steps in the wake of last week’s shocking report on the disaster. Today their lawyers officially requested a new inquest to bring those responsible to justice.
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Saint-Etienne: Hot opening of Kop Nord
For over a year it was closed for redevelopment. But when finally opened, the stands seems to have dismissed fears that it may lose its atmosphere. Loud chanting, massive displays and quite some… controversies.
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Athens: Backup plan for Panathinaikos stadium ready?
Excavation works started in Spring 2009 and ended just after first foundations were laid. Since then the project has been deadlocked with no funding source. But according to Prasinanea.gr, there seems to be a way out.
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Singapore: Event plans for new national stadium revealed
Focus is on regular, annual events instead of one-off gigs. Football, rugby, cricket, concerts – wide variety planned and presented to corporate clients as skybox sale is launched for the venue.
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New design: For Manchester City youth
Hundreds of clubs in England alone would die for a stadium like that. Meanwhile at Manchester City this will only be the youth stadium. To be built by mid-2014 next to the older and bigger Etihad Stadium, where older and bigger boys play…
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Poland: National Stadium subject to multiple lawsuits
Just over two months after Euro 2012 the situation around Stadion Narodowy, or National Stadium, is getting more and more intense. Investors are working on lawsuits against contractors. Construction companies already filed theirs, while beneficiaries of former owner try to reclaim ground underneath the stadium…
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New: One and a half stadium in Essen
Three new stands and two old ones for an unusual pentagonal venue until the older ones are torn down and replaced by new fourth stand. That may sound more boring, but will be more modern as well.
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France: Name your stand in Nice
Naming rights deal for the Euro 2016 stadium in Nice caused mixed reactions. In an attempt for citizens to feel more connection to the venue, authorities ask everyone to submit propositions for patrons of each stand.
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10+ Ranking: Europe’s top attendances (2012 edition)
How many football clubs in Europe have crowds of over 10,000 per game? How does the top ten look? And how many clubs from your country are listed? You’ll find answers for all of these questions below!
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Poland: Top clubs support safe standing and legal pyrotechnics
During last meeting of all 16 Ekstraklasa clubs on Monday, officials decided to support safe standing and legal pyrotechnics inside Polish stadiums. This unexpected step comes in response to police offensive after Euro 2012.
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England: Hillsborough “chaos” was covered up by police
Shocking proof of systematic failures of the police is revealed as victim families gain access to unpublished documents. Newly released records show how facts were manipulated to push the blame from police to Liverpool supporters.
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London: QPR appoint Populous to create unique training complex
As a proof of Rangers’ great ambitions the club has chosen one of global leaders in stadium design to create “an unparalleled centre of excellence” for the club in Ealing, west London.
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New stadiums: 2006 World Cup training venues and penalty record holder
Two of today’s additions to StadiumDB.com were used by Ghana and Mexico for training in June 2006. Third one was the scene of a stunning number of 25 penalty shots in one game!
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England: Wembley name up for sale?
Like a boomerang discussion about potential naming rights for Wembley Stadium returns. Despite officials claiming it’s not an option, “The Telegraph” tells a different story.
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Romania: Second biggest stadium planned in Galaţi
Only the national one in Bucharest will be bigger if plans revealed by mayor of Galaţi come to fruition. Completely new 40,000-seats stadium is to be built by the bank of Danube, according to onlinesport.ro.
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Russia: New restrictions for fans ahead of 2018 World Cup
New bill regulating behavior of supporters is being prepared in Russia. Supposed to be based on English, German and Polish legislation it puts new restrictions on fans, but is also discussed with them, “Vestnik Kavkaza” reports.
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New stadiums: Fresh wood delivery from Sweden
Both of them were either built or renovated this year. And both these operations included lots and lots of wood, surely more than in regular stadiums we see nowadays. Enjoy a taste of Sweden!
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London: West Ham legend hoping to convince fans to Olympic move
Sir Geoff Hurst claims during an interview for BBC Radio 5 that there is no better solution for “The Hammers” than to move up the street. He hopes to reach supporters with his message.
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Poland: A much unexpected Europa League Final proposition
Polish FA has just offered Poznań to become the next bid from this country to host Europa League Final. Choosing this city over Gdansk and Warsaw is seen by some commentators as politically driven.
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New construction: Express replacement in Fürth
Today we present a special redevelopment as it started after one season and ended before the next one. And it’s quite a challenge to remove 4,500 places and replace them with 7,500 new ones. Seven new galleries by Andreas Ruemler present the progress.
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Argentina: Unique stadium awarded
Some of our readers suggested it looks like two squeezed… breasts. Well, we don’t know whether specialists saw the same, but Estadio Ciudad de La Plata has just received “2012 Outstanding Structure Award”.
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Rotterdam: To build or to rebuild De Kuip?
That is the question Feyenoord is facing as architects and supporters attempt to put pressure for redevelopment of De Kuip, while “Pride of the South’ would most likely relocate to a plot nearby. Check out the independent proposition of preserving the unique Feijenoord Stadion.
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Germany: Fighting pyrotechnics with an… appeal
Clubs of all three national leagues in Germany received a short statement that was due to be addressed to supporters before last weekend’s games. Controversial thing about it is putting pyrotechnics alongside racism, discrimination and violence. Still, only one club didn’t apply to the instruction.
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Naming rights: One more deal for Allianz?
Insurance giant already bought rights for three stadiums in Germany, France and Australia. Will Poland deliver their fourth arena? Municipality of Zabrze hope so as they negotiate with Allianz, Sport.pl writes.
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Barcelona: Referendum about Camp Nou’s future?
International design competition from 2007 ended with nothing. Announcements from March that a completely new stadium seems to be the best option are also outdated. According to new plans, all shareholders are to have their say before any decision is made, FCB website informs.
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Iraq: Yet another new stadium within 30 months
Thinking of Iraq many people get the image of battlefields and war damage. But few realize that now it’s actually one of the World’s largest stadium construction sites and news of new venues being under way come nearly every month.
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Munich: Allianz Arena’s capacity grew again - to 71,137!
Finally – some fans might say. Those few who actually got the extra 2,000 tickets. Munich authorities accepted the application for capacity increase and so last row of seating was extended.
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Russia: Gazprom CEO questions Saint Petersburg authorities’ honor
Alexey Miller, Gazprom CEO, is another one to express very harsh criticism over Saint Petersburg’s new stadium project. In his opinion finishing the venue is a matter of honor and it should come before any other public spending.
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Qatar: Living facade in Education City
Bleeding red when red card is given, flickering vortex after goal celebration – the façades of Education City Stadium, one of Qatar’s 2022 venues, are to live during games. But that doesn’t mean they’ll be boring for non-matchdays.
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New design: National Football Stadium at Windsor Park
Plans from a few years back have been scrapped, but that doesn’t mean Northern Ireland isn’t getting a new national venue. Or almost new as one of the Windsor Park stands is to be left untouched.
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USA: Two fans dead in a tragic season opening
New season of American football is just beginning, but not in the way anyone was hoping for. One after another, two accidents took lives of 25- and 20-year-old men who fell down at Reliant Field and Georgia Dome.
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Russia: No more money for Saint Petersburg?
The most shameful project of 2018 World Cup won’t get any more money from the federal budget – prime minister Medvedev announced. He slams the construction pace and cost, calling Gazprom-Arena a disgrace.
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England: Sheffield United rename stand after Jessica Ennis
With a simple reason behind the decision – the golden medalist is a United supporter. The new “Jessica Ennis Stand” was first revealed today, during the Bournemouth game, insidethegames.biz informs.
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Poland: Tender for second stadium in Łódź to start in September
While first stadium’s construction started just two days ago, Łódź announced plans to start tender process for twice bigger one by the end of September. If everything goes as planned, the city will have two major football venues by 2015.
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Poland: League season starts with a bang. No, sorry – with a ban
Complete ban on flags announced, possible nationwide ban on away games. Those are just a few of the growing number of restrictions, with two stadiums on the brink of being closed in just two days. All this after just two weekends of the season in the Euro 2012 host country. And without any hooliganism.
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Doncaster: Rovers took over at Keepmoat Stadium
The ground was a debt-producing machine under municipal management. Will the football side change things round? Rovers are hoping to make the most of it while the city is glad to get one problem of their back, BBC informs.
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Warsaw: Legia opposes Legia stadium being called “Legia Stadium”
A much unexpected twist in the case of name giving to the new venue in Warsaw. Just two days before new name being voted on, the club informed that its name was used without consultation.
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Marseille: Fast pace of roof frame construction
Already over 30% of the steel frame that will support future Ganay Stand roof is in place. The skeleton is to be done in September and the project manager is happy with progress, official website informs.
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Emirates: All stadia in Dubai to get air conditioning
None of six league grounds protects viewers from heat right now, but that is to change. First Zabeel Stadium will be redeveloped, then it’s time for the rest, Al Arabiya News informs.
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Italy: Cagliari without a stadium three days before first game
They left their old venue, but cannot move to the new one just yet. What now? Possibly a move of up to 1,000km (!) or playing in front of empty stands. None of those can be called a desired option, Eurosport reports.
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New ground: New York Stadium
Don’t be fooled, this one’s in England, even if has quite some connection to NY City. As its operator says, it’s “the only stadium in the UK to be built in 2012”. Isn’t that enough to make it worth a look?
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Lens: Permit signed, we await construction
As envisaged before, construction permit for redevelopment of Stade Félix-Bollaert has been signed by mayor of Lens. City officials had to correct their financial input, though. Info-stades.fr story.
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England: New stadium for flooded Gloucester?
After infamous flood of 2007, Meadow Park stadium in Gloucester looks like a jungle rather than a football ground. It’s useless and needs replacement. City council supports the idea, but under one condition, BBC reports.
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Russia: Krasnodar didn’t want restaurants and pubs inside their 2018 stadium
In an interview with “Construction IQ” HKS principal Paul Hyett explains the ideas behind World Cup stadium for Krasnodar. Interestingly, investors didn’t want extensive commercial infrastructure, just like they disapproved of parking lots surrounding the ground.
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Warsaw: Legia’s new stadium to have official name on Thursday
As it came out last year, new ground built in Warsaw for Legia has no official name. That is to change in a few days, when city council is to vote on a new one.
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New stadiums: Three Balkan hills
Each with its own charm and a story to tell. One had a concentration camp, another has its “Stadium of Death” and the last has people who decided to build a venue for their home side to have a place to stay…
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Buenos Aires: Bombonera closed after incident
For at least one game – that’s the decision after supporters of Boca Juniors expressed anger at the away side, after late penalty kick.
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Perth: New 60,000-seater accessible almost only by public transport
State Government released master plan for new stadium in Perth. After years of preparations the city is again closer to having their desired 60,000-seater built. One catch is that the leisure centre will be accessible almost only by public transport, ABC News reports.
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New construction: Stadion Miejski w Bielsku-Białej
No tall prefabs there yet, just excavators and trucks paving way for actual stadium structure. Bielsko-Biała’s new municipal stadium will first receive new north stand before becoming a double-tiered bowl.
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Aberdeen: Scotland’s largest new stadium ‘killed off’?
Club representatives are furious after city council voted against Calder Park training centre, integral part of new Loirston Loch stadium. Chairman Stewart Milne claims this decision effectively ‘killed off’ the whole development, STV reports.
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Lens: Change of plans, construction back on agenda
In early July it was declared Lens will not be getting a redevelopment of their largest stadium. Now the same authorities say they’ve changed the business model to work well. Works should start in March 2013.
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New stadiums: Gorzyce and Bytów
Both are small, but have been noticeable in Poland thanks to clubs using them. Both Bytovia and Tłoki were just a few years back rivaling the likes of Wisła Kraków in Polish Cup, presenting football better than other small sides in the country.
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New design: Elbląg’s redevelopment finally presented
A modern 5,000-seater is to replace outdated and only facelifted venue in Elbląg, Poland. With four independent stands and place to expand if necessary it should be built within a tight €8.5m budget.
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England: 3rd Non-League Day kicks off
Top leagues come to a stop for international weekend. No football to watch? Wrong! Non-League Day promotes small clubs that need support, but are overshadowed by the big firms on most weekends.
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Bordeaux: Construction to start at the end of 2012
Our stadiums are obsolete – says president of Girondins de Bordeaux, Jean-Louis Triaud. At the same time he assures the city’s new venue will be ready in 2015, in time for Euro 2016.
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Glasgow: Rangers set all-time record for a fourth league match!
Not only Scotland, but the whole world hasn’t seen anything like this. Lowest division game brought almost 50,000 people inside Ibrox to set a record seeming unbeatable for decades to come.
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Marseille: What’s new at Vélodrome?
Today at 1700h fans will first see their beloved stadium since the last season. In the meantime Ganay stand’s second tier has been completed and now works moved on to the roof – club informs.
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New stadium: Grand opening of Grand Stade Lille
And so one of the most innovative stadiums is open after 3-year construction. With retractable pitch, retractable roof and impressive illumination of the exterior it surely catches the eye! Also, caught Euro 2016 already and is hunting for more events…
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Brazil: Remains of Råsunda to be used in Recife
Two days after farewell to Sweden’s national stadium we already know the future location of its parts. That symbolic venue will start a second life at Recife’s Arena Pernambuco. How? Copa2014.gov.br explains.
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Brazil: Celebration in Natal with construction ahead of schedule
Recent estimations say half of the new stadium in Natal will be ready by the end of December. An increase in pace and reason to celebrate for the city singled out by FIFA as one with risk of losing the 2014 World Cup, “Tribuna do Norte” reports.
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New stadiums: Oldham, Scunthorpe, Kidderminster
Like English football? Then you cannot miss out on our latest additions. The coldest stadium in England with a famous artificial turf, first of the ‘modern era’ stadia and one senior venue, 116 years old.
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South Africa: Two arrested for Mbombela Stadium fraud
Two people were arrested in connection to the tender process of Mbombela Stadium, one of 2010 World Cup venues. Fraud, forgery and theft are the charges, EWN.co.za informs.
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New stadiums: Mechelen, Charleroi, Leuven, Aalst
Not all too new, to be honest. Oldest one is over 90 and all of them show signs of aging. But that doesn’t make them boring, not one bit! If terracing is along the pitch while business seats behind goal, that cannot be boring…
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Sweden: Brazil to bid farewell to Råsunda
World Cup and Euro finals, great derbies and many other events – this will soon be only history. Sweden-Brazil friendly today will officially bid farewell to the national stadium that awaits demolition.
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Brazil: No name change for Estádio Havelange?
Rio 2016 organising committee denied claims that patronage of João Havelange may have negative influence on the image of their event. Before closing ceremony in London they claimed no name change is needed.
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London: Olympic wrap to be reused
Vast majority of the 306 strips of fabric that cover Olympic Stadium's facades are to be recycled in Manchester. A small portion is also set do aid social projects in Brazil and Uganda, „The Independent” writes.
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England: Wolves open new stand
Though not with the kind of performance they were hoping for. Poor result on the pitch was a bit of a spoil for the shiny stand in black and yellow that replaced former Stan Cullis Stand.
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Poland: New 20,000-seater for Chorzów?
A massive 55,000-seat stadium is still under construction, but municipality declares the will to build a new, much smaller one only for the premier league side Ruch Chorzów.
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London: Woman spreads ashes of medalist inside Olympic Stadium
Once a great athlete and 1948 London Olympics silver medalist, George Avery was hoping to arrive at the new stadium. Unfortunately he died, so his daughter decided to bring him back in a different way…
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England: Golden medalist to have stadium by her name
Jessica Ennis made England proud last weekend by winning the heptathlon gold medal. Already there are plans to rename Don Valley Stadium in her honour, “Guardian” reveals.
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Poland: Construction to start in Bielsko-Biała
New stadium to accommodate 15,000 people is on its way – contract signed, construction site transferred to the contractors. Deal worth €20m is finally on its way.
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England: Another club ready to test safe standing
After Aston Villa now Peterborough United give full support to the idea of standing room inside their ground. “Posh” are in a more complicated situation, because no-one knows what rules will apply to this club until season is over.
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New stadiums: Offenbach, Cologne
Germany's newest stadium – hard to believe it's not even in the 2nd league right now. But while Offenbach just opened its new arena, Cologne also has one ground that's very impressive – taking into account it's only used by amateur club.
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New construction: Another great project for Iraq
Though still associated mostly with unstable situation, Iraq is becoming one of the world's largest construction sites. This time we take a look into Najaf's new stadium that is just now starting to grow out of the ground.
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New stadiums: Sankt Pölten and Wolfsberg
Newest and freshiest stadium in Austria, NV Arena in St. Poelten, comes along with country's Bundesliga latest addition – Lavanttal Arena. Enjoy!
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England: Portsmouth fan to walk between 92 stadiums
Reaching one after another he wants to raise awareness of prostate cancer and encourage people to donate. He estimates the trek to last 8 months and swears that he was sober when making the decision to walk that long. Or at least hopes he was...
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Lyon: Further delay for Stade des Lumieres
Olympique aren't beating around the bush – they still have no idea when their new stadium will be ready. For the time being official delivery time has been switched from first to second half of 2014.
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Milan: New stadium for Inter by 2017?
The club has been seeking for refuge from overwhelming San Siro for several years now and it seems they’ve found it. Inter announced yesterday night that their new co-owner from China will build a new 60,000-seater in 2017.
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Poland: Works slowdown in Zabrze raise concerns
Financial difficulties of the general contractor caused delays in Zabrze, where Polimex-Mostostal is building the new 32,000-seater stadium. Investors are very concerned over abilities of the company to finish works in time.
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Their Euro: Michał (5)
We end this mini-series with the story of Michał who went to 6 out of 8 stadia of Euro 2012. whenever he can, he also goes around Poland with his club Śląsk. Though on a daily basis he goes everywhere on a wheelchair.
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New stadiums: Rovers and Rovers
Two clubs very important for Irish football and two stadia hardly less relevant. Both redeveloped in recent years (in fact, bigger one only opened 3 years ago), which makes them stand out in terms of standard.
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London: Police lost keys to Wembley
After safety check of the national stadium policemen realized one set of keys is missing. Search supposedly didn't help, forcing organisers to replace some locks.
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London: Olympic cauldron transported behind goal
It should be happening at this very moment in the night, to be ready by Monday morning. “Betty” the cauldron is transported to one of the endzones where it will stand until 2012 Olympics are over.
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Their Euro: Andreas (4)
Before Euro 2012 he had never been anywhere east of Germany despite being a huge enthusiast of travelling. But though he spent only 24 hours in Lviv, Andreas had a great time.
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Their Euro: Sachiko (3)
Her heart beats for FC Tokyo, but every couple of years Sachiko books flights to experience football’s largest tournaments. Completely different experience than club football, but a very likeable one, she says.
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London: Fulham given planning permission for Cottage expansion
On Thursday evening local council’s planning commission approved plans of the football side to redevelop their historical home. New Riverside Stand will raise capacity by 4,300 seats.
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London: Olympics opening countdown
Just a few hours left until the ceremony that is to start in London at 9pm (GMT). Expected to last well over 2 hours, the event… has already been seen by thousands of people.
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Poland: Investor and contractor lawyer-up in Wrocław
First lawsuit has already been filed by German contractors Max Bögl to stop the payment of bank guarantees demanded by Wrocław municipality. But in just a week court battles may start for good – “Gazeta Wyborcza” reports.
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New design: Yekaterinburg – practical instead of monumental
Initial vision was very impressive and spectacular. New one seems the very opposite. But maybe replacing fireworks with practical ideas will be the key to be selected by FIFA to host 2018 World Cup?
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Their Euro: Mladen (2)
Came from Rijeka to help Croatian supporters as a Fan Embassy volunteer. But at one point he himself needed help as police arrested him and since they didn’t speak English, explaining anything was hard. But despite that he fell in love with Gdansk and wants to come back.
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New stadiums: Luxembourg
If a country has four clubs in European competitions and their champions manage to beat Red Bull Salzburg, there’s absolutely no reason for us not to have it in our database. So, here is Luxembourg!
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Leeds: United win in High Court against police
High Court in London decided it isn’t justified to charge a football club for services delivered for the safety of the public. Obviously it is match-specific, but why should a football crowd – mostly very well behaved – be treated in a different way than the rest of the society?
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New stadiums: Vietnamese trio
Today we decided to take you on an exotic trip to Vietnam. Football is only just blooming there, but only infrastructure-wise. In terms of passion no other discipline can match this one!
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Gdańsk: PGE Arena to get out of the red in 2017
New managing team have quite a challenge as they need to both run the stadium and pay previous operator’s debts. As chairman Piotr Hymczak declares, the venue should be self-sufficient in 2017 at the latest.
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Their Euro: Joe (1)
We decided to ask people from different countries and backgrounds about their Euro 2012 experience. Everybody, please meet Joe, who came to Poland following Ireland, probably the best supported nation of the tournament.
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France: Third stadium sponsored by Allianz
After naming rights contracts in Germany and Australia the insurance giant bought another stadium name. This time in France and with quite an original name – Allianz Riviera. “L’Equipe” report.
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Sweden: Fanatics chose their sides of Tele2 Arena
Djurgården’s most vibrant supporters announced their location at the new Tele2 Arena. And since they’re sharing the venue with local rivals Hammarby, there will be two hearts for support at the ground.
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Belgium: Anderlecht gives CVDS a makeover
Not a big one so far, but all seats were changed with extra media and corporate facilities following. It cost €3m, decreased capacity, but should still allow the club to earn more, Belgian RTL Sport reveals.
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Poland: Construction in Łódź to start soon
It has to if local football side is to use the ground during initial phase of the project. General contractor hopes to launch works on pitch and floodlight relocation next week, according to Sport.pl.
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England: Bristol Rovers a step closer to relocation
City council has voted for the new stadium at University of West England with only one person against, theconstructionindex.co.uk writes. Surprisingly smaller of the Bristol clubs may get their stadium built sooner than their derby opponents.
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France: Toulouse cuts costs ahead of Euro 2016
No capacity increase for Stadium de Toulouse – maybe even a small decrease. No concert configuration. All this to save some 45% as the city runs out of resources.
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Brazil: Shame on Havelange, fans demand stadium name change
Until last week, the name Havelange referred to a football legend. But as it turned out, longstanding FIFA president João Havelange was part of a bribery scandal. Now supporters of Botafogo demand renaming of their stadium as it bears his name, Reuters informs.
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Africa: Angola to demolish former national stadium
Less than three decades of service, but quite some history. Unfortunately not much longer – giant Estadio da Cidadela will have to be demolished. Analysts indicate its structure’s lifespan is nearly over, as Angola Press informs. Thankfully, there’s a new venue to take over.
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Madrid: Fly Emirates Bernabeu? Record naming rights offer
Astonishing proposal by Dubai-based airlines is on the table. But will Real sell their stadium name for the first time? Fanbase of the club seems to be boiling after reading revelations of ABC.es.
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London: Four bidders left for Olympic Stadium. Again
Though the tender was prolonged by 8 weeks, number of interested bidders hasn’t increased. Only 4 companies expressed the will to take over, among them West Ham United, Burnley FC and Leyton Orient. 8 weeks wasted?
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Istanbul: Manless games, discussions and Blatter’s resignation (2)
There was so much going on that it’s hard to put it together. But here we go with an attempt. The below article sums up some of the most important elements of European Football Fans Congress in Istanbul.
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London: Hoardings around White Hart Lane
Not for stadium construction yet, but for Sainsbury’s supermarket, construction of which is due to start in September. First come demolition works on existing building, though.
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France: Arsonists sabotage stadium renovation in Montpellier
Ahead of the historical appearance in Champions League, Montpellier’s Stade de la Mosson is getting a facelift done for over €1,5m. Unfortunately fire set to seats will delay planned reopening, info-stades.fr informs.
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New stadium: Mersin Olimpiyat Stadı
Turkey isn't slowing down as yet another city will soon receive a new stadium. Mersin Olympic Stadium isn't really all too olympic, but this 25,000-seater will soon host large events. For now available in construction photos and renderings only.
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Istanbul: One stadium per day (1)
Trying to see all of them with such criteria would take long weeks, but we had only 3 days, so discovered barely three of the most well known clubs. Come with us for this virtual review, first part of our European Football Fans Congress 2012 coverage.
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England: Derby County next in line for safe standing
After Aston Villa, Derby County are the next to declare their support for safe standing in some areas of Pride Park. This comes after Football Supporters Federation visited the city with their campaign promoting this solution.
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Poland: Work in Bialystok to restart in 3 days
Final countdown – or at least Jagiellonia supporters hope it to be that. It seems all obstacles have been overcome and work on the new 22,000-seater is to restart this week, Sport.pl announces.
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London: Weather unkind for Olympic Stadium tiocket holders
Those who paid most for their tickets inside the London Olympic Stadium may be in for a dissapointment as meteorologists predict quite some rainfall during olympic events.
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Beijing: Bird's Nest still empty
Numbers are falling dramatically as Chinese tourists aren't that interested any more. Some even cannot afford it. While plans for large events are few and far between, NPR.org reports.
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New stadium: Stade Océane
The most blue of all French stadia is finally being opened today. First game in the evening and tomorrow sightseeing, free for all. Only with us you can get a preview before everyone else!
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London: Famous roof over Craven Cottage being changed
While no football is played currently, Fulham are making use of spare time and changing the roof over the world's oldest and maybe most iconic stand. Should be ready by next season.
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New stadiums: Romanian couple
Compared to Romania's newest arenas in Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca they're nothing special, really. But then compared to the rest of the league, not bad at all. Two stadiums with quite some character.
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Munich: Bayern sold out ahead of season. As always
This time all the seats at Allianz Arena are taken already 45 days ahead of season, the club announced. This means Bayern is sure to have 69 901 at each and every league game.
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Cardiff: Millennium Stadium repainted for the Olympics
Officially the Olympics will take part in London, but some of the events are spread throughout the UK. Cardiff will take 11 football games and for that occasion the largest venue is refreshed, WalesOnline.co.uk informs.
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Poland: Wrocław sacks contractors, demands compensation
Just days after Euro 2012 ended yet another contractor is facing legal action as municipality of Wrocław terminated Max Bögl's contract to build the stadium – Gazeta.pl reads.
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New York: New football-specific stadium announced
Though it’s the most famous metropolis In the world, NY lacks football stadium. First significant venue for MLS club Red Bulls came in 2010. Now a second one will come, this time in Queens.
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New stadiums: Incheon, Changwon, Seongnam
If you don't know these cities, no worries. All you need to know is they've got really decent stadiums. Two have a running track and one is football-specific. Oh, how specific. Real gem, this one!
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Poland: Record-breaking volleyball game for Stadion Narodowy?
With its closed roof it's among the largest arenas in the World. So why not host a volleyball game? - Polish Volleyball Association asks. They plan to do one with all revenue given to the players if Poland bring a medal from London Olympics.
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Turkey: Fans from all over Europe to unite in Istanbul
Possibly some 500 supporter representatives from 32 are meeting in Istanbul for the 5th European Football Fans’ Congress 2012, from 13-15 July 2012. Special moment for Turkish supporters as well as fans groups from Fenerbahce, Galatasaray and Besiktas jointly initiated first national fans’ network meeting.
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Euro 2016: Second stadium redevelopment abandoned
No Euro 2016 games for Lens – this disturbing news has been announced at a public meeting on Wednesday. Lens is the second city after Nancy to back out, leaving France with only 9 host venues.
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FIFA: Goal-line technology given green light
No more controversies over the ball passing goal line? Possibly, as IFAB accepted technological solutions. First test during this year's Club World Cup.
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London: QPR have three plots for new stadium
QPR chairman Tony Fernandes revealed the club are looking at three potential locations for their new 40,000-seater. When all are evaluated, they'll be presented to the supporters, “The Independent” reveals.
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New stadiums: Ferencvarosi and Debreceni new homes
For years plans of building new stadia in Hungary were being presented just to be dropped months later. Now it seems at least those two are going to make it and start serving people of Budapest and Debrecen.
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France: Opening game changes in Havre
As previously planned, official opening game of the new stadium in Le Havre will take place in week, on July 12th. However hosts will play against a completely different team as Glasgow Rangers are going through most severe economical crisis in their history.
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Liverpool: Decision on stadium future delayed again
Liverpool FC didn’t meet the July deadline for decision whether they stay at Anfield or move to Stanley Park. But since no more deadlines were set, “Liverpool Echo” suggests news may come shortly.
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England: Brentford FC to build a new stadium
Yet another London-based club is planning to relocate. And it may turn out that Brentford FC will do it faster than Chelsea, Tottenham, West Ham, Leyton Orient or QPR...
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South Africa: Trade unions eager to dismantle Cape Town Stadium
Congress of the South African Trade Unions says Cape Town’s Greenpoint stadium should be dismantled and turned into low-cost housing. Architects and engineers say it’s possible, “Business Day” reports.
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Enschede: Contractor's rush caused the tragedy?
Misconduct by the contractor has been declared main cause of last year’s tragedy which took the lives of two workers. Research Council analyzing the accident claims rush to meet deadline caused lack of safety.
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Warsaw: Narodowy reopens in two weeks, what then?
Poland’s largest stadium will remain closed until mid-July as UEFA have to pack their equipment. But what happens when they do? “Gazeta Wyborcza” reports. There are only three large events announced for this year. Way too few to get out of the red.
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Ukraine: No games at Arena Lviv
As sad as it sounds, group phase of Euro 2012 may have seen the last big games held at Arena Lviv for months. The city’s largest teams has just started to sell season tickets. For their old stadium.
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Poznan: Only football this year
As Euro 2012 ended, venue operators cross Poland and Ukraine present their plans for upcoming events. In Poznan no events apart from football games are to be hosted this year as Lech plan to make their way to Europa League and fill the calendar themselves.
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Euro 2012: All-time attendance record confirmed!
In total, Euro 2012 games were seen by some 1,440,000 people. Even keeping in mind that some sold tickets went unused, this is a very impressive figure. Euro 1996 record has been beaten by over 200,000 people.
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New stadiums: Spain, Spain, Spain, Spain!
Four goals, four stadiums, four updated presentations. And just as Spain outplayed Italy yesterday, stadiums in Palencia and Tenerife outplay their counterparts from other places in Europe!
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London: Olympic Stadium will be closed until 2015
Surprisingly the time for reconfiguration of the Olympic Stadium has been extended from mid-2014 to mid-2015, “London Evening Standard” reports. As if there wasn’t enough controversy around the venue already.
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Valencia: Work to finally restart (?)
Last major step to relaunch construction at the Nou Mestalla site has been made – declared Manuel Llorente, president of Valencia CF. This time it wasn’t about bank support, but public one.
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Euro 2020: UEFA confirms timelines
Interested federations have time until September 2013 to confirm bidding for Euro 2020. Hosts will be chosen in May 2014 and UEFA confirms bids of more than two countries will be accepted.
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UEFA Super Cup: Surprising hosts – Cardiff and Tbilisi
Next year Super Cup games hit the road after 15 years at Stade Louis II in Monaco. Today hosts were announced for 2014 and 2015 editions – Cardiff City Stadium and Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, respectively.
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Euro 2012: Stadia filled beyond capacity, but seats left empty
One day before the final, tickets are again on sale. In previous fixtures thousands of seats were left empty even if declared attendance stood at 99%+. How about more transparency, UEFA?
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Paris: New giant stadium in the suburbs
Just as declared, today FFR announced the preferred location of their new national stadium. Not in Paris itself, but in the well communicated suburbs of Evry. Time to see the venue that will overgrow Stade de France.
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Sweden: Euro 2024 for Scandinavia?
So far only an early idea by the Swedish football association, but they are to examine chances to host the tournament with one or two of their neighbors. According to Karl-Erik Nilsson, Poland and Ukraine are a great example that not only major countries can cope with the challenge.
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New stadiums: Foggia and Fano
One of the largest venues in Italy that our database missed is now available for viewing. And since Italians scored 2 against Germany tonight, there’s also the Fano stadium to see.
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Wales: Another qualifying campaign without Millennium Stadium
Wales’ largest and national stadium in Cardiff will see no football in the upcoming 2014 World Cup campaign. All fixtures will be divided between Cardiff City Stadium and Liberty Stadium, WalesOnline.co.uk reports.
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New stadiums: Alicante, Cordoba, Lepe
From large venue of the World Cup to tiny, but cosy ground from the lower tiers. Today we take you on a journey through three stadia – one being rebuilt as we speak, one awaiting redevelopment and one freshly opened. All of them to celebrate Spain as Euro 2012 first finalists!
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Poland: Euro 2012 ends, but work at Warsaw’s stadium goes on
Officially finished, officially opened, officially operational. Unofficially work goes on installations inside National Stadium in Warsaw. When “Dziennik Gazeta Prawna” journalists found out, the operator of the ground pretended nothing is happening. But something is, apparently.
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Poland: UEFA to pay dearly for flaws at Wroclaw stadium
When Wroclaw municipality was handing over the venue to UEFA on May 11th, both sides agreed that Euro 2012 organizers will cover the cost of any defects caused during tournament. Today the bill reaches €100,000.
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New design: Crater complex in Ethiopia
Massive, but cheap. Modern, but very traditional. These are just a few things you can say about this design that just won international competition in Addis Ababa. A national stadium to be proud of is coming.
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Russia: Chaos in St. Petersburg – work stopped, costs rising
At this point Russia’s most expensive stadium may be close to becoming world’s most costly as well. And it’s not final as work is stopped, designers didn’t finish their job and parts of the structure may need dismantling.
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New stadiums: Podgorica and Taldykorgan
To some these two may sound exotically. OK, for us as well, at least Taldykorgan. But each of these two stadiums is well worth a visit, even if only a virtual one. Let’s take a break from Euro 2012 for a day now, shall we?
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Poland: New stadium construction to start in a week
Despite protests the Lodz municipality are set for groundbreaking on July 2nd. New stadium for 16,500 people and an indoor arena should be ready by Spring 2014 – “Dziennik Lodzki” reports.
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Iraq: 250,000 seats in one complex?!
As Kurdistani press agency AKnews informs, work is expected to start on a new “sports city”. This one, in Erbil, will overshadow all other complexes like this with its scale. Four largest venues are set to hold 250,000 people altogether.
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Paris: Location of France’s largest stadium on Friday
It will be the biggest competition to existing Stade de France, so no wonder it’s going to stand on the opposite side of Paris. Two locations are available and the final decision will be made on Friday, June 29th – info-stades.fr reveals.
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New construction: Stadion Yubileyniy Saransk
Their local team just earned promotion to the Premier League, not mentioning the upcoming 2018 World Cup. Saransk is doing a whole lot for the city of its modest size. FIFA has just visited and admires progress made. Now we can as well.
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New design: Chelsea unveils proposed Battersea stadium
Is it a last gasp attempt to convince sellers and supporters that a new ground is best for the future of Battersea? Be it that way or not, Chelsea have just published their vision of a future 60,000-seater integrated into the massive building.
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Euro 2012: Warsaw pitch in need of repair, Poznan and Wrocław to keep their grass
On Thursday Portugal and Czech Republic weren’t allowed onto the pitch ahead of their quarterfinal game in Warsaw. Condition of the pitch is alarming and parts of it will be relaid. It’s quite the opposite in Poznan and Wroclaw whose part in the tournament is over.
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New stadiums: Naval and Freamunde
Since Portugal won against Czech Republic tonight, we invite you to Figueira da Foz and 10 times smaller Freamunde. Difference between local stadiums isn’t equally big, even if Naval play in top tier, while Freamunde struggle one level lower.
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Poland: Stadium comedy goes on in Katowice
Three more months will architects work on final design of the new Katowice stadium. Their previous deadline passed on Tuesday, but only now people have been informed, which variant they’re working on – Sport.pl reveals.
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Euro 2012: All group games nearly sold out
One could see empty seats inside the stadiums during Euro 2012 group phase, but all venues have so far had average attendance of over 90% of their capacity.
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Euro 2012: Over 1,000,000 people – record broken, new one to come
Most previous Euro hosts have been working on results like these until semifinals or even final game. Meanwhile yesterday’s last group games brought total number of spectators to over 1 million people. Poland and Ukraine would have to witness a disaster not to set a new Euro record of attendance.
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Euro 2012: English supporters mock “coffin” threats in Donetsk
Not really a stadium case, but since we already wrote about the infamous BBC report suggesting racism in Poland and Ukraine is a serious threat to people. This time it’s English supporters who reacted to these sensations in Donetsk.
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New stadium: Gamla Ullevi
Though Gamla means „old”, this one definitely isn’t. Still, it inherited the name of its more famous predecessor. To celebrate Sweden winning against France tonight we invite you to Goteborg!
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Wales: Cardiff City Stadium to expand, though just opened
New stadium in Cardiff was opened just 3 years ago, but is already awaiting expansion as new Malaysian owner of the club intends to make them a Welsh powerhouse in the Premier League – BBC reports.
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Liverpool: “No one has ever addressed whether or not a new stadium is rational”
LFC owner John W. Henry gave a complex answer to TheAnfieldWrap.com about the plan for future stadium. Managing to evade the key (when will a decision be made), Henry speaks of pros and cons of both new ground and Anfield revamp.
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New: Stadion FK Drnovice
Just like host nation Poland, this stadium fell from heaven of being so close to hell of losing everything. Still, we wish all the best to Czech Republic and celebrate their win yesterday with adding this interesting venue.
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Canada: Yet another delay in Winnipeg
Though the club was denying claims of possible postponement of Investors Group Field's opening, those now came true. Official statement announces that instead of September 2012, the venue will be ready in early 2013.
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Brazil: Largest stadiums in national colours
Two of the most important stadiums in Brazil will have seats in national colours – it was announced. However configuration at Maracana will be completely different from the one at Estádio Nacional.
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New stadium: Once great venue in Nantes
To celebrate France's victory over Ukraine we publish a fresh presentation of Stade Marcel-Saupin, previous stadium of FC Nantes. Since the team left it wasn't used so much. Thus the city decided to change stands into offices and parking spaces.
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London: Opening ceremony idyllic and rural
Meadows instead of playing field, actual farm animals and 10,000 volunteers performing – this is what we can expect on July 27th. Director Danny Boyle plans to create an idyllic countryside enchanted with Shakespeare’s poetry and Paul McCartney’s music.
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Gdansk: Pitch in perfect condition
After Spanish national team gave negative comments regarding the pitch, UEFA representatives reviewed its quality. Results show grass is perfectly as required in terms of humidity, which was Spain’s main concern.
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Buenos Aires: Supporter dies after being stabbed at El Monumental
Tragic incident took place on Sunday evening in Buenos Aires as a fan was stabbed during a fight. Despite attempts to save his life, he passed away after several hours – C5N television reports.
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Brazil 2014: Record sales of hospitality packages
Though it’s only 7 months since premium seats at Brazilian stadiums went on sale for the 2014 World Cup, targeted income already exceeds expectations and is higher than total hospitality revenue from South Africa’s 2010 World Cup.
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Warsaw: National Stadium to change name before Euro 2012 ends?
Poland’s largest stadium should bear the name of Poland greatest coach – claims Ireneusz Raś, head of Sports Commission. Giving Kazimierz Górski patronage should be voted on tomorrow.
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New stadiums: Prague, Jihlava
Two goals by Czechs, so two new stadiums from the Czech Republic. Wasn’t all the way we planned, but despite Poland only drawing with Russia you may still have a look at these very nice venues.
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Poznan: Court announces Hydrobudowa and PBG’s bankruptcy
District Court of Poznan proclaimed one of the largest stadium contractors in Poland bankrupt. Now Hydrobudowa and mother company PBG have over 18,000 liabilities to pay off – Polish press agency PAP informs.
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Euro 2012: Poland and Ukraine going for attendance record!
Only in the first round of the group phase 356,000 people came to 8 stadia of the tournament. That means so far attendance is highest since the introduction of individual seats and 16-team format.
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New stadiums: Kyiv, Kyiv!
Ukrainians opened their Euro 2012 adventure with 2 goals in Kyiv, so we celebrate it with 2 stadiums from Kyiv. One even lying in the direct vicinity of tonight’s arena. Both small, but very important to the Premier Liga.
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Durban: World Cup stadium in the red or not?
On one hand people hear that Moses Mabhida Stadium has generated a big income since the 2010 World Cup. On the other the cost may have been even higher – IOL.co.za informs.
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Gdansk: Spain considering protest over pitch quality
Reigning World and European champions criticize quality of the pitch which supposedly was a factor leading to only a draw against Italy. Lawn is said to be too dry, which may cause official protest to UEFA – Associated Press reports.
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Gdansk: Public transport a success on opening day
Spain vs. Italy sold out and one out of two spectators arrived by train. They’re fast, quite comfortable and free for all. Hard to imagine Gdansk authorities initially didn’t plan a railway line to the stadium – Trojmiasto.pl writes.
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New stadium: Karlovac
A town known to outside world for its civil war and beer. However controversial it sounds, this is quite the image many people have of Croatia. A wonderful country whose win in Euro 2012 we celebrate today with adding the Karlovac stadium.
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Euro 2012: UEFA not to close Warsaw’s roof any more
After complaints on heat and humidity under closed retractable roof on Friday, UEFA decided not to use this feature any more, unless unexpected weather conditions force them to.
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Warsaw: Contractors pick investor to pieces
Companies behind the Warsaw National Stadium claim public authorities are manipulating data not to show that the construction cost hundreds of millions more than predicted. National Sports Center (NCS) supposedly has no budget reserves to cover costs and has been hiding it for months – report by “Rzeczpospolita”.
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New stadium: Lohrheidestadion
Now try and spell it if you’re not German. Yes, the name may be a tricky one, but the stadium is rather simple and quite elegant for an open athletics venue. Added to our database to honor Germany winning their Euro 2012 game. Something for Denmark fans there as well…
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London: Chelsea staying put and QPR moving out?
Local council assures Chelsea they will aid their redevelopment of Stamford Bridge, if the club decides to remain at its original home. Meanwhile nearby QPR plan on finding a new plot as there is no room for Loftus Road expansion.
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Euro 2012: Police working on Wroclaw beatings
Disturbing scenes shown in a YouTube clip present Russian thugs attacking stewards with no-one but other fans trying to calm the situation down. Four stewards were taken to hospital after this incident.
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Warsaw: Largest game of that kind
Euros have already been played at stadiums with roof covering the pitch. But never before was the attendance as high as in Warsaw’s opening game of Euro 2012. Crowd yesterday stood at 56,826 people.
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Paris: Mayor and PSG agree – Parc des Princes to be revamped
No option of moving to another venue is on the table. Parc des Princes will change a lot, but alterations are to come in two phases. First before Euro 2016, second one afterwards – the club informs.
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Euro 2012: Pick up your Fanguide
If you’re using the web to prepare for Euro 2012 excursions, we recommend our database and Venue Guide. But if you find yourself in the streets and need assistance, pick up a Fanguide 2012 from your nearest Fans Embassy.
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New stadiums: Krasnoyarsk, Novosibirsk
We decided to update every country that wins Turing Euro 2012. Since we’re Polish, not particularly happy about only Russia earning their 3 points. But hey, stadia in Novosibirsk and Krasnoyarsk are still well worth a look!
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Sweden: Stockholmsarenan sells naming rights
Second of Stockholm’s new stadium also managed to seal a naming rights deal before opening. Future home of both Hammarby and Djurgardens will be called Tele2 Arena – the operator announced.
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Euro 2012: Why some aren’t all too enthusiastic
The closer to the event, the more signs of discontent about Poland hosting Euro 2012. Though most people are still happy about it, it’s worth knowing why others aren’t.
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London: It’s official, Chelsea lost Battersea
Last week’s speculations are now confirmed. It’s Malaysian SP Setia and not Chelsea FC who will take over the Battersea power plant plot – “Guardian” reports. No stadium here then. Where next, Chelsea?
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New construction: Is this a Euro 2020 venue?
Turkey is growing strong ahead of UEFA’s vote on Euro 2020 hosts. Though with several more venues like this one the country might be able to fight for a World Cup in a few years. Let’s see how it looks in Konya, shall we?
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England: Fans are starting to speak up
Already when Lord Justice Taylor was writing his report on the Hillsborough disaster, he noted that supporters are sometimes treated in ways no-one should put up with. Years later fans are starting to speak up. Amanda Jacks reads all their complaints.
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Italy: Inter looks for a plot to build new stadium
And they plan for the whole process to last just 4 years. If “Nerrazurri” succeed, their new venue should be ready for the 2016/17 season – claims “Il Corriere dello Sport”.
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Warsaw: National Stadium is (literally) killing contractors
Polish construction industry was supposed to grow thanks to Euro 2012. Meanwhile one of the largest developer groups is falling apart and Warsaw's National Stadium is the direct reason to it.
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Brazil: Maracana half way there – needs to speed up
Measured on May 31st, the progress of works in Rio de Janeiro is estimated at 54%. Things need to go faster if the ground is to be ready by the end of March 2013.
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China: Spanish super cup to be played in Beijing from now on?
Chinese promoters have an unusual idea for Olympic Stadium's legacy. They plan to host Spanish super cup at the venue from 2013 on. Spanish football federation already signed a preliminary deal estimated to give them some €40m – EPA reveals.
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France: PSG halves away section
The Paris-based side issued application to decrease capacity of its away section by over 50%. As other clubs supported it unanimously, Ligue 1 agreed to follow the request - „Le Parisien” reports.
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Liverpool: Anfield redevelopment almost certain
The club is working with city council to redevelop Main and Anfield Road stands. Local residents would have to be relocated, which seems the last obstacle for LFC - “Guardian” reports.
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London: Leyton Orient again interested in sharing Olympic Stadium
London Olympic Stadium remains of top interest in England. This time Leyton Orient declare for the second time they might be interested in sharing the ground with a second team, most probably West Ham – guardian-series.co.uk informs.
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New designs: Three for Jastrzębie-Zdrój
A rather unknown Polish city was subject of Designers' Confrontation 3, competition launched at our domestic message board. Now you can see three of 8 works that we found standing out and worth presenting further.
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Euro 2012 Venue Guide just for you!
Not all of us have tickets, not everyone is even planning on taking the trip to Poland and Ukraine. But for those who plan we prepared some helpful tips on host-cities. For those without a plan, it's still not too late!
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Euro 2012: Some facts about opening ceremony
On June 8th some 150 million people are expected to watch Warsaw’s opening game of the tournament. What will precede it is a brief ceremony promoting the hosts and guests.
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London: Chelsea has no chance to buy Battersea?
An insider informs Reuters that Chelsea’s bid to acquire the Battersea plot is “way off the pace” with most probable buyer coming from Malaysia. Decision is expected soon.
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Brazil: Works in Sao Paulo to reach 60% by the end of 2012
Stadium scheduled to host 2014 World Cup’s opening game isn’t subject to much controversy any more. Pace should allow workers to reach 60% of the structure by the end of the year – globo.com reports.
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Euro 2012: BBC advices British supporters to stay home or return in coffins
Last time we checked, journalism was about truth and facts, not about manipulating the first and creating the latter. BBC decided to go for it and inform Great Britain that death awaits its citizens in Poland and Ukraine.
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Cape Town: Municipality insists stadium is no ‘white elephant’
Though only a handful of events took place at the Cape Town Stadium since 2010 World Cup, authorities claim a plan to make the venue more attractive is being put together - sport24.co.za informs.
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New stadiums: Fukuoka, Gifu, Osaka
Three great cities, three really nice stadiums. Of which the Level-5 Stadium shines like a gem of the Japanese J.League Division 2. Gifu ground with seats on grass is also worth a look. Check them out!
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Brazil: Natal stadium given special attention by FIFA
Construction of Arena das Dunas began as the last one for 2014 World Cup. Now FIFA claims the building is behind schedule and needs constant monitoring to assure completion on time – Copa.gov.br reports.
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Turkey: Construction to start soon in Konya
Municipality of Konya signed contract with Gintaş Construction. Groundbreaking ceremony is planned for early June and after 660 days a new 42,000-seater should be ready – the contractor informs.
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Poland: Wrocław’s illumination given first test-drive
Though last week investors feared it might not be ready at all for Euro 2012, the system of 700 LED lamps was tested yesterday. Not fully configured yet, but first impression is a rather good one – check for yourselves!
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Scotland: Aberdeen postpone new stadium opening by 12 months
Not at the beginning of 2013/14 season, but one year later – this is now the official opening time for Arena Community Stadium in Aberdeen. Acquiring land for construction has proven more difficult than the club had hoped – STV reports.
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2020 Olympics: Istanbul, Madrid and Tokyo shortlisted
The International Olympic Committee informed about creating a shortlist of candidates to host 2020 Summer Olympics. The two eliminated cities are Baku (Azerbijan) and Doha (Qatar).
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France: Bordeaux stadium given building permit
Which of course is great news for Euro 2016 and Girondins, but to spoil the joy an appeal has already been filed. It will consume some time, but is unlikely to put the project on hold – “Sud Ouest” predicts.
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France: Stadium in Havre ready and taken over by the club
Just as planned, construction ended in May 2012. Now Havre AC takes over and needs to buy all necessary equipment. Grand Stade du Havre will be ready for opening this Summer – Paris-Normandie.fr reports.
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New designs: How Euro 2016 venues will NOT look like
Today we take you on an unusual journey across France to see rejected bids for Euro 2016 host venues. They may have lost, but surely are worth a closer look!
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Liverpool: Stadium decision to be made soon?
After 19 months of waiting yet another statement by Ian Ayre informs supporters and media that LFC are moving towards a final decision. It’s still unknown, whether a new stadium or redeveloped Anfield is more probable. Words published by the BBC seem to suggest the latter.
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Poland: Work to resume in Białystok
Construction of a 22,400-seat stadium in north-eastern Poland came to a stop last year. Now that new contractor has been chosen, the ground should be ready within 21 months – 90Minut.pl reveals.
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Poland: Second largest stadium still on hold
Since last year’s accident during roof construction lifting, Stadion Śląski is constantly on hold. The investor didn’t meet another deadline and asked for time until end of 2012 to give full report on the accident – Gazeta.pl reports.
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Portugal: Leiria to sell temporary stand from Euro 2004
Last year in September bailiff took control over Leiria’s municipal stadium when local authorities were attempting to sell it. One part was not affected though – temporary stand used during Euro 2004, lent to nearby Olha. Now this stand will be put up for auction.
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Paris: PSG wants to rebuild Parc des Princes
New Qatari president of PSG suggests the club will opt to completely rebuild the ground and raise capacity to 60,000. Second choice would be less impressive renovation of current stands. Moving to Stade de France wasn’t named as any option – info-stades.fr suggests.
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Bristol: New Sainsbury’s store will replace Memorial Stadium?
First presentation of this plan had taken place in December. Now the retail giant modified it after several rounds of consultations and presented them to local residents. All seems to go as planned for Bristol Rovers to change grounds soon - thisisbristol.co.uk reads.
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England: Visiting 116 stadiums on a bike, scoot or on feet
He’s neither an away-going supporter, nor a groundhopper. It’s also not a sports discipline, what he’s doing. Steven simply decided to visit 116 venues in England and Wales using his bike, scoot and feet. This is how Football Ground Tour was born.
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Doncaster: Rovers to take over Keepmoat Stadium
After almost 6 years in operation the ground still generates losses that cannot be balanced by income streams. Thus new management model is planned with Doncaster Rovers playing key role and taking over the ground – “The Star” reveals.
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Warsaw: Here comes the Euro 2012 pitch
Last parts of the pitch were laid inside Warsaw’s National Stadium on Saturday. Now grass needs a week to gain strength and will be ready for June’s 7th training sessions that will precede Euro 2012 opening game the following day.
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Poland: No lights for Euro 2012 games in Wroclaw?
Though it was supposed to be delivered by early April, external illumination of Wroclaw’s Euro 2012 venue will not be ready until end of May. There is also a risk of works being finished after three games of the tournament – “Rzeczpospolita” reads.
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France: Farewell to Stade Deschaseaux
On Friday evening sold out crowd gave farewell to 80-year old Stade Jules Deschaseaux. Flares, fireworks and pitch invasion marked the end of last matchday by Ligue 2’s Havre AC. They move to nearby Grand Stade du Havre in July.
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London: Are West Ham misleading supporters?
Almost 9 out of 10 match-going supporters of West Ham United are against the move to London’s Olympic Stadium – claim fans’ group WHU’S VIEW. Their survey stands in opposition to previous claims by club representatives – Football Supporters Federation reveals.
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