Tianhe Stadium – stadium description

Decision to build a brand new stadium in downtown Guangzhou was made in 1984. Together with other sporting amenities the building able to hold 60,000 people was enclosed in a green square surrounded with high-rise architecture. With its symmetric layout the complex still lies directly along Guangzhou’s major axis, running right through the middle of the ground.

The complex was built for 6^th National Games of China (1987), but other major events followed soon afterwards. In 1991 it was the place of opening/closing ceremonies and final of the first ever Women’s World Cup. In 2001 again home to the National Games, then in 2010 to the continental Asian Games, too. And finally in 2013 it hosted the AFC Champions League final.

Ahead of the biggest events it went through significant renovation works. The concrete superstructure hasn’t changed since 1987, but in 2009 all seats and roof cover were replaced, followed by most systems serving the building.

Week-to-week football use is provided by Evergrande, a popular local club often filling the stands to capacity. Although local authorities require that the stadium should only be filled up to 80%.