The Grand Stadium of Tangier has emerged as the flagship venue for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, boasting the largest capacity of all selected sites. Recently expanded and upgraded to meet the demanding “FIFA 2030” standards, the stadium can now host up to 75,500 spectators in state-of-the-art conditions.
Set to stage six matches during the tournament – including one of the semi-finals – the venue will feature three group-stage games and three knockout fixtures. A wave of fans is expected from Senegal, Benin, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, whose national teams will compete in the stadium.
The seating, spread across three tiers, reflects the city’s visual identity with its white and blue color scheme. Hospitality has been elevated to international standards, with a dedicated 210-seat guest tribune, 1,300 VIP seats, and 142 luxury suites distributed across multiple levels, each capable of accommodating up to 20 guests.
On the field, a hybrid turf system combines natural grass with synthetic fibers to optimize durability and performance. The grass varieties, chosen according to season and sunlight exposure, are grown locally. This blend ensures robust drainage, faster recovery between matches, and resilience against wear and tear, allowing for back-to-back games without compromising the playing surface. A dual-function system handles both irrigation and water evacuation, adapting to the stadium’s environmental conditions.
Athlete comfort was a clear priority in the design. The facility includes four fully equipped locker rooms – more than the minimum requirement – as well as recovery spaces, cryotherapy rooms, dedicated warm-up zones, technical staff offices, and a sprawling 500-square-meter mixed zone for media interaction.
Lighting and visual technology meet international broadcast standards, with dynamic lighting effects and integrated systems enhancing the in-stadium experience. Two massive 220-square-meter video screens, a 700-meter perimeter display, and a high-end sound system contribute to an immersive atmosphere, all managed through a centralized control hub that oversees digital and technical operations.
Architecturally, the most striking feature is the stadium’s sweeping roof, designed to echo the waves of the nearby sea. Stretching 85 meters, it ranks among the largest of its kind in the world. Built from steel frameworks, tensioned cables, and translucent textile materials, the structure was engineered to withstand the region’s frequent winds and unpredictable weather. Its rapid installation drew on entirely local expertise, a point of national pride.
With its blend of cutting-edge technology, refined aesthetics, and world-class amenities, the Grand Stadium of Tangier stands as a powerful symbol of Morocco’s growing investment in sports infrastructure and its readiness to host major international events on African soil.
