Moses Mabhida Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium situated in Durban, South Africa. It is primarily used for association football matches, often hosting the home games of various South African clubs and the South African national team.
The stadium was officially opened on 29 November 2009 with a match between Amazulu and Maritzburg United. It was built as a replacement for the Kings Park Stadium and currently has a seating capacity of 56,000. Designed by the architectural firm Gerkan, Marg and Partners, the construction of the stadium cost around ZAR 3.4 billion.
Being a modern, state-of-the-art stadium, Moses Mabhida has hosted several significant matches including the 2010 FIFA World Cup games, including a semi-final. It also hosted the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2010 MTN 8 final. The stadium has become an iconic symbol of the city of Durban and was part of the unsuccessful 2022 Commonwealth Games bid. The design and aesthetics of the stadium have been highly praised, which includes a 350m long, 106m high arch that spans the stadium. As of 2021, Moses Mabhida Stadium has welcomed millions of spectators and continues to be a top choice for hosting both domestic and international sporting events.
Known as the 'Moses Mabhida Stadium', this iconic structure is named after a former general secretary of the South African Communist Party, Moses Mabhida. Situated in Durban, South Africa, the stadium is a symbol of the country's passion for sports, particularly football. The stadium was one of the host venues for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and has since become a landmark in the city.
The construction of the Moses Mabhida Stadium began in 2006 and it was officially opened to the public in November 2009, a few months before the World Cup. The stadium was built on the grounds of the old Kings Park Stadium and its design was inspired by the South African flag, with the grand arch representing the unity of the nation. The design and architecture of the stadium have won multiple awards for its innovation and excellence.
One of the most distinctive features of the Moses Mabhida Stadium is its grand arch. At 106 meters high, the arch not only provides structural support but is also a major attraction for tourists. A funicular car runs along the arch, offering visitors a panoramic view of the city and the Indian Ocean. The stadium also features a 'SkyCar' ride to the top of the arch for an even more breathtaking view.
The Moses Mabhida Stadium can accommodate over 56,000 spectators and its design allows for excellent views from every seat. The stadium has been designed to be multi-purpose, hosting not only football matches but also rugby games, concerts, and other events. The stadium also houses a sports institute and a museum dedicated to South African football.
Since its opening, the Moses Mabhida Stadium has hosted several high-profile events. Apart from the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it was one of the venues for the 2013 African Cup of Nations. The stadium also hosted the final of the 2012 Top Gear Festival and has been a regular venue for domestic football and rugby matches. In 2018, the stadium was selected to host the Commonwealth Games, further cementing its status as a world-class sporting venue.
In conclusion, the Moses Mabhida Stadium is more than just a sports venue. It is a symbol of South Africa's progress and unity, a monument to its love for sports, and a testament to the country's ability to host world-class events. The stadium's distinctive design, its grand arch, and its status as a multi-purpose venue make it a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts and tourists alike.
An appropriate site, with excellent accessibility and sufficient space for future expansion, was pinpointed in the southern area of the Stamford Hill neighbourhood. Being situated at the intersection of the Stamford Hill and Greyville neighbourhoods, the new stadium was initially referred to as 'Stamford Greyville'.
The stadium's ownership was always intended to be vested in the club, although initially a lease was taken out on the municipal lands, with the final purchase only taking place in 2009. The plans for the sports complex had been drafted as far back as the late 1990s by the design team, led by a former player of the club.
Under the leadership of the club's president, Moses Mabhida, the associates adapted to an increased fee to support the construction costs of the new stadium, provided substantial donations, and some even worked on the construction site on holidays or weekends. There was even a 'cement campaign', in which large quantities of cement bags were donated to the club.
The construction officially commenced on 15 February 2006. Less than three years later, at a cost of 3.1 billion Rands, on 29 November 2009 (a local holiday), a crowd of 62,760 filled the stadium for the inaugural match against rivals AmaZulu F.C.
Moses Mabhida Stadium (2009): This reference covers the opening and initial usage of the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa. https://www.stadiumdb.com/stadiums/zaf/moses_mabhida_stadium
Moses Mabhida Stadium (The Durban's Jewel) – since 2010: This source provides a comprehensive history and description of the stadium, including its design, construction, and major events hosted. https://www.stadiumdb.com/stadiums/zaf/moses_mabhida_stadium
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