The Grand Stade Hassan II is set to become the world’s largest football stadium. Currently under construction in Casablanca.
The stadium, which will be able to host no less than 115,000 people once finished, is the result of a collaboration between global sports design experts Populous and the Paris-based architecture studio Oualalou + Choi. The mega structure boasts a modern design and is reminiscent of a tent, inspired by raditional Moroccan social get-togethers known as “moussem”.
“The Grand Stade Hassan II is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture, with its traditions and contemporary expressions”, explained Tarik Oualalou, Design Principal and founding partner at Oualalou + Choi and Lead Architect for the project. “It is rooted in ancient and primordial figures: the Moussem, the tent, and the garden, as well as the topography and landscapes of Morocco. It’s a generous space, open to the world and respectful to the Nature it protects. The Grand Stade Hassan II de Casablanca is the embodiment of the great tradition of Moroccan hospitality.”
Three compact tiers at both ends of the stadium bowl provide space for 29,500 general admission spectators each and another 12,000 VVIP, VIP, Hospitality and Box seats are planned, in addition to the Royal box.
The entire stadium will be covered by a tent-like structure composed of aluminium lattice, while a ring of 32 stairways leads to the surrounding lush gardens integrated in the project. In their turn, those gardens lead to the forested landscape outside of the stadium, leaving an important role for nature within the design of the Grand Stade Hassan II.
“The Grand Stade Hassan II will provide extraordinary spaces that create exceptional experiences for every fan and every visitor”, said François Clément, Senior Principal, President of Populous France and Lead Architect for the project. “It is a cornerstone of King Mohammed VI’s vision to develop Morocco’s football infrastructure that will elevate Morocco to the highest global platform of sporting infrastructure development.”
Once the stadium has been finished, it will be fully compliant for FIFA competitions. As Morocco has been named as a joint host for the FIFA World Cup 2030, alongside Portugal and Spain, the goal of the new project is to be able to host the final match of that competition at the Grand Stade Hassan II. Two local football clubs will also be able to use the stadium as their home.
