30 most famous football stadiums

24) Stade (Orange) Vélodrome (Marseille, France)

Capacity: 67,394

Opened: 1937

Tennant(s): Marseille

France’s largest football stadium made multiple appearances in both the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2016, most notably a semi-final between Brazil and the Netherlands in the former and the hosts’ semi-final victory over the Germans in the latter. Occasionally used for rugby matches, the Stade Vélodrome’s curved structure veers away from the traditional box shape of most football stadiums and the recent implementation of an ellipsoidal roof in 2014 only compliments this unique attribute.

While its overall appearance and renovations prior to the 1998 World Cup have increased its popularity, being home to arguably the nation’s most successful football club of all time makes the Orange Vélodrome a solid fixture on this list.

23) Amsterdam Arena (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

Capacity: 53,502

Opened: 1996

Tennant(s): Ajax & Netherlands National Team

The €140 million construction of the Netherlands’ biggest football venue concluded some twenty years ago this year and after hosting various football, American football and music events, the Amsterdam Arena remains one of the most well recognised stadia across the continent. Rated four stars by UEFA, it has served as a buzzing venue for such occasions as the 2013 Europa League final and the 1998 Champions League final and has unrivalled visibility from practically every seat in the stadium.

When transformed for music concerts, through covering the pitch with aluminium and closing the retractable roof, it becomes the largest indoor venue for entertainment in Europe. Boasting a new club museum, numerous restaurants and a tailored shopping centre, the Amsterdam Arena serves not only as one of the best football stadiums for its club and national supporters but as a hotbed for fans of culture and night-life.