Fisht Olympic Stadium – stadium description

Before the final concept by Populous was revealed in 2009, two other variants were discussed: one with modest, almost flat roof and small capacity and another that would see the outer shell of the stadium resemble a Fabergé egg.

All of the plans were associated with Sochi winning the rights to hold 2014 Winter Olympics. Eventual project included a dynamic roof that peaks at central point of the stadium, resembling a mountain. Fittingly, the stadium was soon named Fisht after a local peak. Both ends were left uncovered and with room for only small stands, allowing fans to look at the see (south) and mountains (north) from the stands.

Construction began in 2009 in the town Adler, some 20km south of Sochi. Wetlands covering the site required significant preparatory works and while in progress the project was found not to have environmental approvals, while it was done on protected natural habitat. Eventually it received all permissions, but with major controversy.

The progress was much slower than anticipated and led to no test events being held in 2013, as the IOC required. In the end only days before the opening ceremony people were allowed inside to check the logistics and safety. The ceremony itself went well in these terms, opening the stadium on February 7, 2014..

During the Olympics the stadium had 40,000 capacity, smaller than planned initially. This is due to no end sections being done, leaving room for artists’ equipment for opening and closing ceremonies.

Before the 2017 Confederation Cup and 2018 World Cup the stadium grew on both ends to hold group games. It received not only additional seating, but also more floor space and boxes. Additional temporary seating was erected on top of both ends to increase capacity during major games. The conversion consumed over RUB 4 billion.