Stade de Marrakech

Marrakesh Stadium (Arabic: ملعب مراكش‎, Berber: Annar n Mrraksh) is a multi-use stadium in Marrakesh, Morocco. It was designed by Gregotti Associati International.

Grand Stade de Marrakech
Full nameGrand Stade de Marrakech
الملعب الكبير بمدينة مراكــش
LocationMarrakesh, Morocco
Capacity45,240
SurfaceGrass
Construction
OpenedJanuary 5, 2011
ArchitectGregotti Associati International
Tenants
Kawkab Marrakech
Morocco national football team

Completed in January 2012, it is used mostly for football matches with the capability of hosting Olympic Games. It is home to Kawkab Marrakesh football team. The stadium has a capacity of 45,240 people.[1] It replaces Stade Al Harti as the home of Kawkab Marrakech and as the main stadium of the city.

It hosted the 2014 IAAF Continental Cup, four games including the final in the 2014 FIFA Club World Cup, and the 2014 African Championships in Athletics.

History

Construction

Launched on September, 2003, the construction of the stadium lasted 7 years and 3 months. Inauguration took place on January 5, 2011 with friendlies involving two Moroccan teams ; Kawkab Marrakech and Wydad Casablanca facing two French teams ; Olympique Lyonnais and Paris Saint Germain.

Criticism

After more than seven years in construction, the Marrakchis people and the contributors unveiled the first stadium in the world to be both rectangular and host a running track. The criticism from that branched from these constructive decisions is that the distance from the running track to the bleachers is much too far. Considered a fault to the builders, the space contrast is attributed to a lack of potential spectators in the stadium, who avoid the stadium due to poor vision.[2]

Means of access

The stadium is located 11 kilometres (7 mi) north of Marrakesh. It is served by the international airport Marrakesh - Menara at fourteen kilometers, and the railway station of the city. Access to the stadium is provided by sixteen doors and a grand entrance.

References
  1. Grand Stade de Marrakech, worldstadiums.com
  2. Grand Stade de Marrakech, The Stadium Guide


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