Russia is home to some of the most impressive soccer stadiums in the world. With a deep-rooted passion for football and having hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2018, the country boasts several state-of-the-art arenas. Here’s a look at the 10 best soccer stadiums in Russia, considering their capacity, architecture, history, and overall atmosphere.
1. Luzhniki Stadium (Moscow)
- Capacity: 81,000
- Home Team: Russian National Team
- Opened: 1956
Luzhniki Stadium is the crown jewel of Russian football and the largest stadium in the country. Opened in 1956, it has hosted numerous historic events, including the 1980 Olympics and the 2018 FIFA World Cup final. The stadium underwent extensive renovations before the World Cup, featuring a retractable roof and upgraded seating. It is the home ground for the Russian national team and often hosts major club matches.
2. Krestovsky Stadium (Gazprom Arena) (Saint Petersburg)
- Capacity: 68,000
- Home Team: Zenit Saint Petersburg
- Opened: 2017
Also known as Gazprom Arena, this ultra-modern stadium in Saint Petersburg was built for the 2018 World Cup and is the home of Zenit Saint Petersburg. Designed by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, it features a retractable roof and a sliding pitch, making it one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the world. The stadium hosted seven World Cup matches, including the semi-final, and is regularly used for UEFA Champions League fixtures.
3. Fisht Olympic Stadium (Sochi)
- Capacity: 47,659
- Home Team: PFC Sochi
- Opened: 2013
Originally built for the 2014 Winter Olympics, Fisht Olympic Stadium was later converted into a football stadium for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. With a unique shell-like design inspired by the Caucasus Mountains, the stadium offers breathtaking views and an electrifying atmosphere. It hosted group-stage matches and knockout rounds during the World Cup and continues to serve as a venue for Russian national team matches.
4. Kazan Arena (Kazan)
- Capacity: 45,379
- Home Team: Rubin Kazan
- Opened: 2013
Kazan Arena, located in the capital of Tatarstan, is the home ground of Rubin Kazan. Designed by the same architects behind Wembley Stadium and Emirates Stadium, it boasts one of the largest outdoor LED screens in Europe. The stadium was a key venue for the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2018 FIFA World Cup, hosting the famous match where Russia eliminated Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout.
5. Otkritie Bank Arena (Spartak Stadium) (Moscow)
- Capacity: 45,360
- Home Team: Spartak Moscow
- Opened: 2014
The Otkritie Bank Arena, commonly known as Spartak Stadium, is the home of Spartak Moscow, one of Russia’s most successful clubs. Opened in 2014, it was designed with a vibrant red and white facade representing Spartak’s colors. The stadium was a key venue during the 2018 World Cup, hosting group-stage matches and the round of 16. It offers an incredible atmosphere thanks to Spartak Moscow’s passionate fanbase.
6. Rostov Arena (Rostov-on-Don)
- Capacity: 45,000
- Home Team: FC Rostov
- Opened: 2018
Built specifically for the 2018 World Cup, Rostov Arena is situated along the Don River, providing a picturesque setting for football matches. It serves as the home stadium for FC Rostov and featured thrilling World Cup matches, including a game between Belgium and Japan. The stadium’s modern design and excellent infrastructure make it a standout venue in southern Russia.
7. Samara Arena (Cosmos Arena) (Samara)
- Capacity: 44,918
- Home Team: Krylia Sovetov
- Opened: 2018
Nicknamed Cosmos Arena due to Samara’s rich history in space exploration, this stadium boasts a futuristic dome-like design. It was one of the key venues for the 2018 World Cup, hosting six matches, including a quarter-final. Currently, it serves as the home ground for Krylia Sovetov. The arena’s design and atmosphere make it a must-visit for football enthusiasts.
8. Nizhny Novgorod Stadium (Nizhny Novgorod)
- Capacity: 45,000
- Home Team: Olimpiyets Nizhny Novgorod
- Opened: 2018
Overlooking the confluence of the Volga and Oka rivers, Nizhny Novgorod Stadium offers stunning views and a fantastic football experience. Built for the 2018 World Cup, it features an open-air design with a wave-like roof. The stadium hosted six World Cup matches, including a quarter-final, and is now the home ground of Olimpiyets Nizhny Novgorod.
9. Mordovia Arena (Saransk)
- Capacity: 44,442
- Home Team: FC Mordovia Saransk
- Opened: 2018
Located in Saransk, Mordovia Arena was another stadium purpose-built for the 2018 World Cup. With a vibrant orange and white exterior, it stands out as one of the most visually striking stadiums in Russia. It hosted four group-stage matches and is now used by local clubs. Though smaller than some others on this list, its design and atmosphere make it a noteworthy venue.
10. Yekaterinburg Arena (Yekaterinburg)
- Capacity: 35,000
- Home Team: FC Ural Yekaterinburg
- Opened: 1957
Famous for its temporary stand extensions during the 2018 World Cup, Yekaterinburg Arena is one of the oldest stadiums in Russia, dating back to 1957. The stadium underwent renovations to meet FIFA standards, adding a blend of modern and historical architecture. Home to FC Ural Yekaterinburg, it is a unique football venue and was one of the easternmost locations for the World Cup.
Conclusion
Russia’s soccer stadiums reflect the country’s deep love for the sport, blending history, technology, and architectural brilliance. From the iconic Luzhniki Stadium to the high-tech Gazprom Arena, each stadium offers a unique experience for football fans. Whether you’re a local supporter or a traveling enthusiast, visiting these stadiums promises unforgettable moments filled with football magic.
