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TThe 2010 FIFA World Cup™ gave South Africa an excellent opportunity to showcase its magnificent soccer stadiums. Football fans who visit South Africa are guaranteed to be amazed by the architecture of the stadiums and the quality of the fields.
South Africa has some of the world's finest soccer stadiums, 10 of which hosted matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.
TThe largest of these stadiums is FNB Stadium in Soweto, known as 'Soccer City' during the World Cup. The massive orange structure, based on a calabash (traditional cooking pot), hosted the World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies. With 94 000 seats, FNB Stadium is one of the 20 largest stadiums in the world.
The stadium was also the venue for the first 2010 FIFA World Cup™ match on African soil, which was a 1-1 draw between South Africa and Mexico.
Other magnificent stadiums in the Gauteng province are the iconic Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, and the famous Ellis Park in Johannesburg.
TThe Cape Town Stadium also hosted some memorable matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ under the name 'Green Point Stadium'. The stadium has 68 000 seats and hosts many international football and rugby matches, as well as other big events such as live music concerts.
Described as an architectural wonder and 'a sporting cathedral', the 54 000-seater Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban is easily recognisable by its spectacular arch. You can be whisked up to a viewing platform and enjoy 360° views of the seafront and city, climb up a 500-stair adventure walk, or tackle the Big Rush Big Swing − the world's only stadium swing.
Other stunning South African stadiums include the Mbombela Stadium (Nelspruit), that combines elements of the Big Five in its design; Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg (the only stadium in the world to be community-owned) and Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth.
TTravel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
South African Football Association
Tel: +27 (0)11 494 3522
Best time to visit
Major soccer stadiums in South Africa host events and tours all year round.
Things to do
Tours of FNB Stadium are available through Champion Tours. Cape Town Tourism also offers a stadium tour. As mentioned above, Moses Mabhida Stadium offers a range of activities, from a giant stadium swing to an incredible Skycar experience.
What to pack
If you don't like the sound of vuvuzelas, pack earplugs.
Where to stay
Most stadiums are located within or just outside the city. Accommodation around these areas is generally easy to find.
What to eat
If you are attending a soccer match in South Africa, sample some of the street food cooked outside the stadium.