Soccer Stadiums in Russia: Top 10 Stadiums to Explore

Russia boasts some of the most iconic and architecturally stunning soccer venues in the world. From historic Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow to cutting-edge new arenas in cities like Saint Petersburg and Kazan, these soccer stadiums in Russia have hosted Olympic ceremonies, World Cup matches, and countless domestic fixtures. In this guide, we rank the 10 best soccer stadiums in Russia, highlighting their history, capacity, and major events.

Whether you’re a football fan, a traveler, or a student of stadium design, this article provides detailed insights, stats, and interesting facts to help you appreciate these sporting landmarks. And don’t forget – if you want to see more, check out our Russian Premier League teams page for club info and Travel tips in Russia for your trip plans.

1. Luzhniki Stadium (Moscow)

Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow – Russia’s largest football venue hosting World Cup finals.
Luzhniki Stadium is Russia’s national stadium and by far its largest football venue. Opened in 1956 (renovated 2017–18), it seats about 78,000 spectators. It has been the centerpiece of several major events: the 1980 Summer Olympics (opening/closing ceremonies and athletics), UEFA Champions League finals, and the 2018 World Cup (7 matches including the final). Today it hosts the Russian national team and local club Torpedo Moscow. The arena’s two-tier bowl and iconic roof make it a historic symbol of Russian sport.

History

Built for the 1956 Olympics and overhauled in 2017–18, Luzhniki’s history reflects Russia’s sporting legacy. It was the centerpiece of the 1980 Olympics, hosting opening/closing ceremonies and athletics. In 1999 it hosted the UEFA Cup final, and in 2008 the Champions League final (Man Utd vs Chelsea). The stadium was fully modernized for the 2018 World Cup, adding a continuous roof and upgraded amenities.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: ~78,000 seats (largest in Russia, 9th-largest in Europe).
• Design: Bowl-style arena with an oval roof. All seats have unobstructed views of the pitch.
• Facilities: Category 4 (UEFA elite) with VIP lounges, media areas, and retractable seats.
• Notable: It’s a multi-use complex with an indoor arena and various training fields on site.

Major Events

• 1980 Olympics: Opening/closing ceremonies and track & field.
• 1999 UEFA Cup Final: Parma defeated Marseille, setting an attendance record.
• 2008 UCL Final: Manchester United vs Chelsea (1-1, Man U won on penalties).
• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 7 matches – incl. the Opening Match and the Final.
• Other: Seasonally hosts Russia national team games and Spartakiads.

2. Gazprom Arena (Saint Petersburg)

Gazprom Arena (formerly Krestovsky Stadium) in Saint Petersburg with retractable roof.
Saint Petersburg’s Gazprom Arena (also known as Krestovsky Stadium) is a modern marvel with a retractable roof and pitch. It seats about 67,800 spectators (64,468 for World Cup). Built on Krestovsky Island and opened in 2017, it is home to FC Zenit Saint Petersburg, one of Russia’s top Russian Premier League teams. This stadium hosted the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup (including the final) and 7 matches of the 2018 World Cup (e.g. a semi-final). It was also selected for Euro 2020 games. Gazprom Arena’s retractable roof and ultra-modern facilities make it a showcase of Russian engineering.

History

Originally planned for Euro 2008, Gazprom Arena’s construction spanned over a decade (2008–2017) due to funding and design changes. It was finally completed in time for the 2017 Confederations Cup. The venue was renamed Gazprom Arena in 2016 after a naming sponsorship. It features a futuristic design with steel arches supporting a sliding roof and field system.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: ~67,800 (football); 64,468 used in World Cup.
• Design: Retractable roof and movable pitch (can slide outside). A steel “crown” structure lights up in team colors.
• Facilities: Includes hotel space, museums, and training complexes inside. UEFA Category 4 stadium.
• Unique: 384 light bulbs on the roof create a “crown” logo at night.

Major Events

• 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup: Opened with Russia vs New Zealand. Hosted several games, including the final.
• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 7 matches, including the France–Belgium semi-final and other knockout games.
• UEFA Euro 2020: Selected to host 4 group games and a quarter-final, plus later 3 extra matches due to Dublin changes.
• Champions League: Was slated to host the 2022 final before relocation.

3. Otkritie Bank Arena (Spartak Stadium, Moscow)

Otkritie Bank Arena in Moscow, home of Spartak Moscow.
Moscow’s Otkritie Bank Arena (Spartak Stadium) opened in 2014 as Spartak Moscow’s home ground. It seats about 45,360 fans. The stadium has a distinctive modern roof and red-white seats reflecting the club’s colors. It hosted four matches of the 2017 Confederations Cup (including the final) and five games in the 2018 World Cup. Named after its banking sponsor, it is often called “Luzhniki 2” after its designer’s reference. Today it hosts Spartak’s matches and occasional Russia national team games.

History

Spartak Stadium was the first new Russian stadium built after the Soviet era. A joint venture financed by Gazprom/Bank Otkritie started construction in 2007. It was inaugurated in 2014 after delays, costing over $350 million. The arena was immediately included as a World Cup venue. Its name has changed with sponsors (previously Lukoil Arena, now Otkritie Bank Arena).

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: 45,360 (official), reduced to 44,190 for World Cup.
• Design: Four-tiered grandstand with a full-coverage roof. A bright exterior facade (often lit in red-white).
• Facilities: VIP lounges, media zones, team museum. It won “Best Russian Stadium 2015” in UEFA polling.
• Teams: Home to Spartak Moscow (a historic RPL club). Also temporarily hosted the Russian national team.

Major Events

• 2017 Confederations Cup: Hosted 4 matches including the Russia vs New Zealand opener.
• 2018 World Cup: Site of 5 matches (4 group games and one Round of 16). Notably hosted New Zealand vs Portugal (0-4).
• Domestic: Spartak Moscow’s season openers and key derby matches have large attendances (near 40k).
• Other: Concert venue; e.g., hosted Elton John in 2017 and Tomorrowland Winter.

4. Fisht Olympic Stadium (Sochi)

Fisht Olympic Stadium in Sochi, originally built for the 2014 Winter Olympics ceremonies.
Located in Sochi’s Olympic Park, Fisht Stadium opened in 2013 for the 2014 Winter Games. It initially held 40,000 (closed bowl) and now about 47,000 after expansion. Famous for its open-air design with a lattice shell roof, Fisht was the ceremonies venue for the 2014 Olympics. After the Games it sat idle until rebuilt for football. In 2018 it hosted 6 World Cup matches (4 group, 1 R16, 1 quarter), including the dramatic Croatia–Russia quarter-final. It is now home to PFC Sochi. Fisht’s picturesque location on the Black Sea and innovative architecture make it one of Russia’s most scenic soccer stadiums.

History

Designed by Populous (same firm as London Olympic venues), Fisht Stadium was completed in 2013. It was named after a nearby mountain. After the Olympics, the indoor bowl was converted into a football arena: end-trusses were removed to open the field and extra seating (+6,000) was added for soccer. It reopened in late 2016 ahead of 2017 Confederations Cup.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: Expanded to 47,659 seats. (Post-WC, it will remain around 40-43k for local leagues.)
• Design: Iconic white shell roof (reminiscent of snow). Open sides allow sea breezes.
• Facilities: Modern amenities from Olympics; scoreboard ring around inside. The exterior can be lit with multi-color LEDs.
• Team: Now serves PFC Sochi in the Russian Premier League.

Major Events

• 2014 Winter Olympics: Hosted opening and closing ceremonies.
• 2017 Confederations Cup: Hosted one semi-final.
• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 4 group matches, 1 Round of 16, and the Croatia vs Russia QF. (Notable upset: Russia 2-2 Croatia on penalties.)
• Post-2018: Occasional Russia internationals (e.g. friendlies) and concerts (Sting in 2017).

5. Rostov Arena (Rostov-on-Don)

The curved facade of Rostov Arena, home to FC Rostov.
Rostov Arena is a new riverside stadium that opened in 2018. It holds 45,000 fans and replaced the aging Olimp-2. Designed by Populous, its wavy facade blends with the Don River backdrop. The venue hosted five World Cup matches in 2018 (three group games and a Round of 16). After the Cup, it became home to FC Rostov, who play in the Russian Premier League. Rostov Arena has already won design awards and is a source of local pride for South Russia.

History

The stadium’s construction began in 2014 and completed in April 2018. It was specifically built for the World Cup on an island in the Don River. The design features sails and curves inspired by the river. It held its first official game on April 15, 2018. Rostov’s old Stadion Olimp-2 is nearby, but Rostov Arena is now the city’s main sports venue.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: 45,000 (matchday); 43,472 for 2018 FIFA WC.
• Design: Three-tiered bowl with a semi-open facade. The exterior “sails” mimic old sailing ships and northern lights. Retractable seats add flexibility.
• Facilities: Includes VIP lounges, a fan zone. The pitch is natural grass with under-soil heating.
• Team: Home ground of FC Rostov (RPL).

Major Events

• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 5 matches (4 group, 1 Round of 16). For example, Croatia beat Denmark 3–2 on penalties (R16) and France won 2–0 over Uruguay (QF) nearby.
• Domestic: Hosted Russia vs Brazil friendly in 2018.
• Other: FC Rostov league matches and Cup games. Plans exist for concerts and athletics meets.

6. Nizhny Novgorod Stadium (Nizhny Novgorod)

Nizhny Novgorod Stadium at night, with the illuminated Kremlin and river.
Overlooking the confluence of the Volga and Oka rivers, Nizhny Novgorod Stadium is notable for its scenic location. Opened in 2018, it seats 44,899 fans. It features a white exterior with blue lighting, reflecting water themes. The arena hosted 7 matches in the 2018 World Cup (including England 6–1 Panama and a France–Uruguay quarter-final). It is now home to the local club FC Nizhny Novgorod. With a design intended to resemble waves, and the landmark Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in front of it (pictured), this stadium is both photogenic and state-of-the-art.

History

Built from 2015–2018, Nizhny Novgorod Stadium was funded by the federal government as a World Cup venue. The long build included land reclamation on the riverbank. The stadium’s aesthetic is inspired by water and wind (city slogans). It also hosted events in the 2013 Summer Universiade (swimming pool and indoor stadium nearby), showcasing the city’s role as a sports hub.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: 44,899 (official); 43,319 used during World Cup.
• Design: Rounded shape with white columns; LED lighting can change colors. The roof has a zigzag pattern to mimic waves.
• Facilities: Two-tier seating, modern player and media facilities. It has a large scoreboard ring and two light towers.
• Team: Home to FC Pari Nizhny Novgorod (RPL) and occasionally national team youth matches.

Major Events

• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 4 group matches and 2 knockouts (Croatia vs Denmark R16; France vs Uruguay QF). Memorable games include England’s 6–1 win over Panama.
• Other: England’s game vs Panama was watched by ~45,000 people.
• Future: Plans for local events; has hosted concerts (e.g., Local Band performances).

7. Ak Bars (Kazan) Arena – Kazan, Tatarstan

Kazan Arena (Ak Bars Arena) with its sweeping roof, home of FC Rubin Kazan.
Kazan Arena, officially Ak Bars Arena, was built in 2013 and seats 45,379 spectators. It has one of the largest roofs of any stadium. The design evokes a rowing boat and features a giant video facade (one of the biggest in the world). It hosted games in the 2013 World Swimming Championships (ceremonies) and was a key venue in football: four matches in the 2017 Confederations Cup and six matches in the 2018 World Cup. Remarkably, three former World Cup champions (Germany, Argentina, Brazil) were eliminated at Kazan Arena during the 2018 tournament. It is the home ground of FC Rubin Kazan (another RPL team).

History

The stadium was constructed for the 2013 Summer Universiade (as an aquatics stadium). Its construction used special German exchange-rate loans. It opened in December 2013 with capacity ~45,000. The venue has since become a landmark. In 2016–17 it was overhauled for football use and the Confederations Cup.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: 45,379 seats. For World Cup it was capped at 45,105.
• Design: The curved roof is one of the largest in Europe. A massive LED facade covers much of the exterior (5,000 m²). The field is 105×68 m.
• Facilities: Modern scoreboards, hospitality suites, training fields. The stadium hosted swimming finals in a temporary pool in 2013.
• Team: Home to FC Rubin Kazan (Russian Premier League).

Major Events

• 2013 Universiade: Hosted opening/closing ceremonies and swimming competitions.
• 2017 Confederations Cup: Hosted 4 matches (Korea–Russia SF among others).
• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 6 matches, including the shocking Germany 0–2 South Korea upset and Brazil’s elimination by Belgium in the quarters.
• Other: UEFA Champions League games (e.g., FC Moscow vs international clubs in 2010s), Russian Super Cup matches.

8. Volgograd Arena (Volgograd)

Aerial view of Volgograd Arena beside the Volga River.
Volgograd Arena is the newest of these venues, opened in 2018 on the site of the old Central Stadium. It seats 45,568 (43,713 for World Cup matches). Notably, it was built at the foot of the World War II memorial Mamayev Kurgan, linking sport with the city’s history. In the 2018 World Cup it hosted 4 matches (all group stage), including England’s 2–1 win over Tunisia. After the World Cup, capacity was reduced and it became home to FC Rotor Volgograd. With its cable-frame roof and white exterior, Volgograd Arena blends modern design with solemn surroundings.

History

Construction began in 2015, on a riverfront site. The project included uncovering riverbank land and moving utilities. The design (by PI Arena architects) features a circular roof supported by spidery columns. The stadium was inaugurated in April 2018, just in time for the World Cup.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: 45,568 (football); 43,713 during World Cup. Later scaled down to ~43,000.
• Design: Inverted truncated cone shape with a cable-structured roof. The roof’s scalloped edges mimic waves. The stadium is largely uncovered (airy feeling).
• Facilities: VIP lounges, conference halls, and a large fan plaza. Retractable seating allowed expansion for 2018.
• Team: Home to FC Rotor Volgograd (RPL as of 2022).

Major Events

• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 4 group matches: Tunisia vs England (1–2), Nigeria vs Iceland, Saudi Arabia vs Egypt, Japan vs Poland.
• Post-2018: Was planned to host Confederations Cup but event canceled. Now holds Rotor’s league games and some youth internationals.
• Other: Occasional concerts; some ice shows (roof supports rigging).

9. Solidarnost Samara Arena (Samara)

Samara Arena (Cosmos Arena) shining under a summer sky.
Samara’s stadium, often called Cosmos Arena, is one of the most futuristic-looking venues. Opened in April 2018, it seats 44,918 and has a rounded dome shape. The roof was initially positioned on the ground (“spaceship” landing), then lifted into place – a rare construction feat. In the 2018 World Cup it held 6 matches, including Brazil vs Mexico (R16) and the England vs Sweden quarter-final. Today, it is home to FC Krylya Sovetov Samara and an athletics venue for the Universiade. Its unique shape and sky-blue exterior (until covered) make it a standout among Russian stadiums.

History

Samara Arena was built specifically for the World Cup. Its groundbreaking “spaceship” assembly (roof raised by cables) attracted international attention. The stadium was officially opened by FIFA President Gianni Infantino in April 2018. The project cost around $320 million and was a joint venture with local university.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: 44,918 seats. For 2018 WC, it was 41,970 (reduced capacity due to no spectators behind goals).
• Design: The roof opens like a shutter revealing a central round plaza. The name “Cosmos Arena” referenced the impending flight of Yuri Gagarin from nearby Baikonur spaceport.
• Facilities: Equipped with modern sports equipment (rink for football, runway for athletics for Universiade 2019). Four large giant screens.
• Teams: Home ground for Krylya Sovetov (RPL) and also used by athletics teams.

Major Events

• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 3 group matches and 2 knockouts:
  • R16: Brazil 2–0 Mexico (51,682 attendance).
  • Quarter: England 2–0 Sweden (39,991 attendance).
• 2019 Universiade: Hosted track & field events (the stadium convertible).
• Other: Russia national team friendlies, large concerts (e.g. International music festivals).

10. Yekaterinburg Arena (Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg)

Yekaterinburg Arena lit up at night, city center.
Yekaterinburg’s Central Stadium, now called Yekaterinburg Arena, was originally built in 1957 and renovated in 2017. It seats about 35,061. The stadium is known for a temporary stand behind one goal that was removed for World Cup 2018 to create an open end. It is home to FC Ural Yekaterinburg (founded 1930, Russia’s oldest football club). In 2018, it hosted 4 group matches, including Uruguay vs Egypt (0–1) and Mexico vs Sweden (0–3) which knocked Mexico out. The venue’s partial open-air design and city-center location make it unique among the list.

History

The stadium opened in 1957 as a multi-sport venue. It underwent major renovations 2006–2011 and again in 2014–17 to meet FIFA standards. For the World Cup, temporary stands were removed. The old Stalinist facade remains on one side, blending Soviet heritage with modern glass architecture.

Capacity & Features

• Capacity: ~35,000. Plans exist to downsize to ~25,000 by 2023 (removing upper tier) for regular use.
• Design: Originally horseshoe-shaped (open end) with distinctive porch front. Two tall floodlight towers flank the pitch.
• Facilities: Updated player areas and media facilities. Less VIP space than newer arenas.
• Team: Home to FC Ural (RPL).

Major Events

• 2018 World Cup: Hosted 4 group matches:
  • Uruguay 1–0 Egypt (Group A) – opening match of the tournament.
  • Mexico 0–3 Sweden (Group F) – a huge upset eliminating Mexico.
  • France 1–0 Peru (Group C) and Japan 2–2 Senegal (Group H).
• Other: Hosted some UEFA youth and women’s games. Occasional cultural events in the city.
• Legacy: The stadium remains a symbol of Yekaterinburg’s football tradition.

Tips for Readers

Have we covered your favorite stadium? Which soccer stadium in Russia do you dream of visiting? We hope this guide helps football fans and travelers plan their journeys. Feel free to share this article with fellow soccer lovers, and leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions. For more insights on Russian football and travel, check out our Travel tips in Russia section.

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