Populous Designs World's Largest Football Stadium for 2030 World Cup

Morocco has revealed plans for the Grand Stade Hassan II, a new football stadium designed by Populous that will be the world's largest upon completion. Located in Benslimane, near Casablanca, the stadium is set to host matches for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco is co-hosting with Spain and Portugal. The venue will have a seating capacity of 115,000, making it the largest football stadium globally.

The design, a collaboration between Populous and Paris-based architects Oualalou + Choi, draws inspiration from Moroccan cultural traditions, specifically the "moussem," a type of social and cultural gathering. This influence is reflected in the stadium's roof structure, which is conceived as a large, tent-like canopy made from an aluminum lattice. This design aims to provide shade and shelter while honoring local heritage through its visual form and incorporating advanced engineering techniques.

Beyond its capacity for sporting events, the Grand Stade Hassan II is planned to be a multi-functional complex. It will include facilities such as training centers, aquatic complexes, hotels, and retail and leisure areas. This integrated approach is intended to ensure the stadium's continued use and relevance beyond the 2030 World Cup, fostering urban development and cultural exchange in the region.