The Grand Stade de Tanger which is currently undergoing renovation ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, will be ready by the end of September. This information regarding the Grand Stade de Tanger Renovations was by reported Anouar Amraoui who is the architect in charge of the project.
All interior spaces of the stadium have been redesigned to meet FIFA standards ahead of the 2030 World Cup. Morocco will co-host this tournament with Spain and Portugal. Furthermore, the cost of the renovations works amounts to $360 million. Also, in preparations to host the 2030 World Cup, Morocco is constructing one of the world’s largest stadiums, the Grand Stade de Hassan.
Grand Stade de Tanger Renovations Project Factsheet
Location: Tangier, Morocco
Lead architect: Anouar Amaoui
Cost: Approximately $360 million
Timeline of renovations:
- Phase 1 (2020-2023): Initial expansion of the stands in the curves, which increased the capacity to 65,000 in time for the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup.
- Phase 2 (2023-2025): The major reconstruction project began, including the removal of the athletics track, the addition of a new ring of stands in the lower part of the stadium, and the installation of the new roof.
- Target completion date: The stadium is scheduled to be ready by the end of September 2025.
Key features after renovation:
- New capacity: The capacity will be increased to approximately 75,000.
- Playing field: A new hybrid pitch has been installed, combining natural grass with injected plastic fibers for enhanced durability and performance.
- New roof: A new, full-cover roof made of a white tensile fabric has been installed. The structure is supported by giant steel rings and is considered one of the most advanced in Africa. The installation of the final membrane panels is nearly complete.
- Interior spaces: All interior areas, including changing rooms, VIP sections, media centers, and hospitality suites, have been redesigned to meet FIFA standards.
- Accessibility: Upgraded vertical mobility solutions. It includes 12 elevators and 10 escalators, have been installed to ensure easy access for all visitors.
Significance of the Stadium
“The structure of the Grand Stade de Tanger is the second largest of its kind in the world. This is after the Maracanã in Brazil. Additionally, it is a hybrid structure which is half metal, half cable,” Anouar Amraoui explained. Also, he added that the renovation works are being carried out by Moroccan companies with a German technical assistance.
“In May 2024, we were still in the study phase. Today the stadium has taken shape. The renovation works are nearly complete. So far, we are proud of what has been achieved.”
According to Omar Khyari, who is the advisor to the President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), the revamped stadium will undoubtedly enhance Morocco’s sports infrastructure. Furthermore, it will become one of the largest stadiums in the Kingdom.
A Bigger Vision
Furthermore, Omar Khyari highlighted that the stadium will be linked to additional infrastructure. This is in line with the clear-sighted vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, adding that the Grand Stade de Tanger is “one of the showpieces of continental and global football.”
“This stadium will allow Morocco to position itself as a hub for continental and international football. We are thankful to the work of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation for the project,” he added.
The newly renovated stadium has a capacity of 75,000 seats. Furthermore, it has been transformed into a venue dedicated exclusively to football. This has been achieved following the complete removal of the athletics track therefore bringing spectators closer to the pitch and enhancing the atmosphere.
Field Dimensions
The field dimensions remain 105 × 68 meters. Also, it contains a natural grass surface that meets FIFA standards. Currently, a monumental new roof is being installed. The roof will serve to provide cover for all spectators and making the stadium one of the most advanced in Africa.
The architectural project focuses on both aesthetics and functionality. Therefore, this will allow it to meet the requirements of major international events.
