World Cup 2010 Stadiums in SA

Very soon people from around the world will be flocking to South Africa for the Soccer World Cup 2010. The country has been very busy preparing itself for this major event and everyone is buzzing with football fever. Let’s take a look at the World Cup 2010 stadiums and their locations.

Johannesburg: Soccer City Stadium

Recently reconstructed, Soccer City Stadium is located in the bustling and vibrant city of Johannesburg. This intriguing structure is designed to resemble a calabash (or African pot), and is stunning when lit up at night. The original stadium was built in 1987 and has a long history of hosting major football matches. The upgrades including increasing capacity to 94 700, adding additional suites that now number 184, building an encircling roof, creating new changing rooms and setting up new lighting. Along with the other matches it will be hosting, Soccer City Stadium is the place to catch the kick-off and the final. Sights to visit while in Johannesburg include Newtown Cultural Precinct, the Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg Zoo and Constitution Hill.

Cape Town: Green Point Stadium

Located in the beautiful tourist destination of Cape Town, the newly constructed Green Point Stadium is able to accommodate some 70 000 fans. It boasts the beautiful backdrop of Cape Town’s mountains and stands not far from the sparkling ocean. This venue is set to host a number of matches including one of the semi-finals. This is a truly magnificent structure to behold, adding to Cape Town’s allure. Be sure to check out the following major attractions when visiting the city: Table Mountain, Robben Island, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

Johannesburg: Ellis Park Stadium

Originally constructed in 1928 and then reconstructed in 1982, Ellis Park has been a centre for rugby in South Africa for many years. A number of minor upgrades were made to the stadium to prepare it for the Soccer World Cup, including the building of a new tier on the north stand so that capacity is now at 62 000. This fantastic stadium also features exceptional media facilities, VIP areas, team whirlpools, a new pitch and a brilliant audio-visual setup.

Durban: Moses Mabhida Stadium

This newly built stadium was designed with the South African flag in mind and features a massive 350m arch, which is said to represent unity in the country. A cable car takes visitors to a viewing platform at the top of the arch, at a height of 106m over the pitch. This platform offers spectacular views of the city and the nearby shore. The stadium has a capacity of just under 70 000 and will be host to one of the semi-final matches. Places to visit whilst in Durban are: UShaka Marine World, various beaches, and Umgeni Bird Park.

Tshwane/Pretoria: Loftus Versfeld Stadium

One of the oldest stadiums in South Africa, Loftus Versfeld was in use since 1902. Situated in the heart of this historic city, the stadium has been upgraded for the World Cup. The stadium boasts a capacity of just under 50 000. Why not include the following attractions on your itinerary when visiting this destination in South Africa: The National Zoological Gardens, Voortrekker Monument, and the South African Cultural History Museum.

Port Elizabeth: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

This stunning, newly built stadium stands beside the glistening waters of North End Lake. The stadium will be host to eight matches and has a capacity of over 46 000. Designed to resemble a flower, this stadium is sure to impress. Between catching the games at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, visitors to the city will certainly want to see these attractions: The Boardwalk, nearby Addo Elephant Park, the Blue Flag Beaches, and popular historic walks.

Mangaung/Bloemfontein: Free State Stadium

Originally built in 1952, the Free State Stadium was upgraded just prior to the Confederations Cup. It now has a capacity of 45 000. Home to the Bloemfontein Celtic soccer team, football has grown in popularity in the area and you will certainly want to catch a match here. While staying in Mangaung/Bloemfontein, why not take some time to check out these hotspots: Naval Hill, the Botanical Gardens, Franklin Reserve and Bloemfontein Zoo.

Polokwane: Peter Mokaba Stadium

Designed with the Baobab tree in mind, this concrete stadium’s steel structure, which supports the roof, gathers together at the corners and are supported by trunk-like structures which contain ramps and service cores. Standing just 5km from the city centre, it is easily accessible and offers seating to some 45 000 fans. Attractions worth visiting whilst in Polokwane include Ndebele Village, Makapan’s Cave, Valdezia Mission Station and the nearby Kruger National Park.

Nelspruit: Mbombela Stadium

Located about 7km from the city centre, the newly built Mbombela Stadium has a capacity of 46 000. This is the first venue in the city that is able to host major football events. Located near to a number of game parks, Nelspruit offers a number of wildlife experiences, as well as the opportunity to explore the Sudwala Caves.

Rustenburg: Royal Bafokeng Stadium

Constructed in 1999, the Royal Bafokeng Stadium has undergone a minor upgrade to prepare it to host World Cup matches. The stadium has a capacity of 44 530 and is easily accessed from the world-famous Sun City (25 minute drive). Attractions worth exploring in the area include Rustenburg Nature Reserve, Pilanesburg Nature Reserve, and the Rustenburg Ramble (arts and crafts route).