5 Worst Stadiums in the World Have Been Named, and TWO Six Nations Grounds Make the List
11/18/2024 06:31 AM
LiveRugbyTickets has uncovered the worst stadiums in the world, based on more than 15,000 TripAdvisor reviews for 40 different grounds.
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By using an index that analysed atmosphere, cleanliness, affordability, and food, each stadium was given a score out of 10 for overall fan satisfaction, revealing the best and worst places to watch rugby.
One surprising inclusion in the list is Bristol Bears’ home, Ashton Gate, which ranks as the tenth worst. But now, let's dive into the top five worst rugby stadiums worldwide.
#5. Stade de France (Paris, France)
Capacity: 80,698
Opened: 1998
Home to: France Rugby
Cost: €364 million
DID YOU KNOW? It will host the opening and closing ceremonies and athletics events at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Stadium Bio:
Stade de France, located in the Paris suburb of Saint-Denis, is one of the largest and most iconic venues in France. Originally built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, it has since become a key venue for both rugby and football.
As the home ground for France's rugby team, it hosts major rugby matches, including Six Nations fixtures and test matches. Despite its size and high-profile nature, it receives mixed reviews due to concerns about accessibility, atmosphere, and facilities. While the stadium is often seen as impressive from the outside, some fans feel that the experience inside doesn’t quite live up to the expectations.
#4. Allianz Riviera (Nice, France)
Capacity: 35,169
Opened: 2013
Home to: Toulon (Occasional)
Cost: €250 million
DID YOU KNOW? One of its host stadiums during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Stadium Bio:
Allianz Riviera, located in Nice on the French Riviera, is one of the newer stadiums in France. It is a multi-purpose stadium that is home to OGC Nice football club, but it also hosts rugby matches for Toulon, among other events.
Despite being modern and well-equipped, the stadium has been criticized for its lack of atmosphere during rugby games, especially compared to more established rugby venues. Some fans feel that its location, on the outskirts of Nice, contributes to a less vibrant matchday experience. Still, its contemporary design and facilities make it an important part of France’s sporting infrastructure.
#3. Stadio Olimpico (Rome, Italy)
Capacity: 70,624
Opened: 1932
Home to: Italy Rugby
Cost: €27 million (initial construction)
DID YOU KNOW? The stadium holds a UEFA category four rating and has hosted four Champions League finals, with the most recent being the 2009 final.
Stadium Bio:
Stadio Olimpico in Rome is one of the most historic stadiums in Europe. Originally built for the 1960 Summer Olympics, it has undergone various renovations over the decades. It is the home of the Italy national rugby team and hosts Six Nations matches, but it also serves as the home of both AS Roma and Lazio football clubs. Known for its grand architecture and historical significance, the stadium's reviews for rugby have been less than stellar.
Fans cite issues such as limited seating comfort and outdated facilities. However, its reputation as a football venue often overshadows its rugby use, leaving some to question its suitability for the sport.
#2. National Stadium (Singapore)
Capacity: 55,000
Opened: 2010
Home to: Singapore Rugby Sevens
Cost: S$1.87 billion
DID YOU KNOW? National Stadium holds the record for the largest dome structure in the world.
Stadium Bio:
The National Stadium in Singapore is a state-of-the-art venue known for its futuristic design, complete with a retractable roof. It is primarily used for rugby sevens events, including the Singapore Sevens, but also hosts football and athletics events. Despite its modern design, the stadium has faced criticism for the lack of intimacy and atmosphere during rugby matches.
Some fans feel that the massive, spacious venue doesn't create the kind of electric atmosphere seen at smaller, more traditional rugby grounds. The steep ticket prices and long queues for food also contribute to its lower satisfaction ratings.
#1. Estadio Ciudad de La Plata (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Capacity: 53,000
Opened: 2003
Home to: Argentina Rugby
Cost: AR$100 million
DID YOU KNOW? The stadium was renamed Estadio Único Diego Maradona in 2020 after the passing of the Argentine legend.
Stadium Bio:
Located just outside Buenos Aires, Estadio Ciudad de La Plata is a unique and futuristic-looking stadium, often regarded as one of Argentina's most controversial sports venues. Although it was built to host the 2003 Rugby World Cup and serves as a home ground for the Argentina rugby team, the stadium is frequently criticized for its location and lack of atmosphere.
Its distance from the city center and the open design of the venue make it difficult for fans to feel connected to the game, leaving many fans feeling disappointed. Despite its striking architecture and modern facilities, its fan experience leaves much to be desired.
See the full breakdown of 40+ rugby stadiums around the world and their rankings here.
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