There’s a new 92k-seat stadium coming to town: The Royal Commission for Riyadh City and the Sports Ministry unveiled plans for a new 92k-seat sports stadium named King Salman Stadium, according to a statement. The news came as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman endorsed Saudi’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup, according to state news agency SPA.
About the new King Salman stadium: The stadium, located in north Riyadh on King Salman Road, and next to King Abdul Aziz Park, will span some 660k sqm and include a 120-seat Royal Box and ample VIP seating, in addition to rooftop walkways, large screens, and gardens. Aside from shopping and recreational facilities, the stadium’s premises will also include some 360k sqm of additional sports facilities, including an Olympic swimming pool, training fields, an athletic track, and others. Construction is slated to wrap in 4Q 2029.
IN CONTEXT- Saudi is now the sole bidder for the World Cup in 2034 (check out the bid website here) after Australia said late last fall it wouldn’t pursue the tournament The Kingdom is set to submit its letter of intent to FIFA later this year at a ceremony in Paris, with result of the bid to be announced in December. The Kingdom has been building out football infrastructure, including recently announced plans for the 45k-seat Mohammed bin Salman Stadium in Qiddiya, as well as the 45k-seat New Murabba Stadium in Riyadh.
Going green: The stadium will feature some 96.5k sqm of green walls and roofs and will be constructed in line with sustainable and green building guidelines. The facility will also host a sustainable cooling system for seating and floors.