Workers’ Stadium – stadium description

Why was the new Workers' Stadium built?

The old Workers' Stadium (also known as 'Gongti') was opened in 1959, for the 10th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. Over the years it has been the main stadium in the Chinese capital, hosting numerous events, including the Asian Games (1990), the Universiade (2001) and the football Asian Cup (2004). Prior to the 2008 Olympic Games, the venue was upgraded. At the same time, with the creation of the 'Bird's Nest', it lost its status as Beijing's main stadium.

The redevelopment of the run-down venue had been planned for some time, with the additional impetus provided by the awarding of the 2023 Asian Cup to China in 2019. The old Workers' Stadium was to be demolished so that a completely new football venue could be built in its place. Among other events, the new arena was to host the final of the 2023 Asian Cup and the opening ceremony of the tournament.

When was the new Workers' Stadium built?

The old stadium was demolished in August 2020 and construction of the new arena began in its place. Sinobo Group was the main contractor for the facility. During construction, in May 2022, China dropped out of hosting the 2023 Asian Cup due to circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the stadium was built as planned and was ready by the end of 2022. The first event to take place at the new venue was a concert on New Year's Eve, which was held for television (without audience participation).

How does the new Workers' Stadium differ from its predecessor?

The new Workers' Stadium was built on the exact site of its predecessor. The facility, although built from scratch, has numerous references to the traditions associated with the old stadium. It has retained its oval form, and one of the most prominent features reminiscent of the old arena is the distinctive concrete facade with its 80 columns, reproduced in the same way as the old stadium from its inception.

Apart from the references to tradition, however, the facility is clearly different in many ways from its predecessor. The new stadium was built as a football-specific stadium, without an athletics track around the pitch. Unlike the previous facility, where most spectator seating remained uncovered, the stands of the new Workers' Stadium are fully covered. The stadium also has a much more extensive commercial and catering offer.

What are the main features of the new Workers' Stadium?

The stands of the stadium surround the pitch on all sides, with the first rows above pitch level. The auditorium consists of four tiers, although the second and third tiers (especially the third) are relatively narrow. The exception is the stand behind the north goal, which has been divided into only two tiers. It is intended for the most die-hard supporters of Beijing Guoan FC. The capacity of the stadium is 68,000 spectators.

The upper edge of the auditorium waves slightly to match the oval outline of the stadium. Interestingly, the stands behind the goals are slightly higher than those along the pitch. The stands have been fitted with folding seats in green, referring to the colours of Beijing Guoan FC.

A dome-like roof was built over the structure. Its skeleton consists of steel beams arranged in triangular patterns. The roof is made of transparent material and the outer perimeter is covered with photovoltaic panels. There are floodlights under the canopy, as well as two video screens, located above the stands behind the goals.

The stadium is located a few kilometres east of Beijing's inner city. A new metro station is also to be built next to the stadium, where two lines will intersect. Parking facilities are available for visitors.

The venue is suitable for a range of sporting and non-sporting events, including large concerts. The main user of the stadium is the Beijing Guoan FC football club, a participant in the Chinese Super League, which also played at the former venue.