About Stade de France
Although some may think it’s in Hollywood, Stade de France is actually located in the inner suburbs of Paris (Saint-Denis, France) (www.sortiraparis.com ). It is France’s largest stadium, seating about 81,338 people (stadiumdb.com ). The venue is a multi-purpose arena built from 1995–1997 and inaugurated in January 1998 (its first match was France vs. Spain) (stadiumdb.com ). It features a distinctive oval design with a massive 6-hectare transparent roof that looks like an elliptical “rim” over the stands (stadiumdb.com ). This roof – weighing ~13,000 tons – was engineered to protect spectators while symbolizing the “universality of sport” in France (stadiumdb.com ). The stadium was designed by renowned French architects (Michel Macary, Aymeric Zublena, Michel Regembal, Claude Constantini) in association with SCAU Architecture (stadiumdb.com ). Innovative features include a retractable lower tier and sliding seating that reveal an athletics track as needed (stadiumdb.com ). In fact, **25,000 seats are movable**, making Stade de France the world’s largest modular stadium (stadiumdb.com ). Its design and impact on the Paris area have earned awards – it received an “Outstanding Contemporary Architecture” award in 2021 (stadiumdb.com ). Over the years, Stade de France has hosted many historic events (from the 1998 FIFA World Cup final to the final of the Rugby World Cup 2023) and will be a centerpiece of the 2024 Paris Olympics (www.sortiraparis.com ) (www.stadefrance.com ).
Events and Programming
Stade de France regularly hosts the French national football (soccer) and rugby teams. For example, it was built for and hosted the 1998 FIFA World Cup (France’s 3–0 victory in the final) and later held the finals of Euro 2016 and FIBA events. It also holds France’s top domestic finals – the Coupe de France (soccer) and Top 14 (rugby) finals almost every year. Beyond sports, it’s Europe’s largest concert arena. Globally renowned artists and bands have performed here (past headliners include Johnny Hallyday, Céline Dion, Tina Turner, AC/DC, Coldplay and Beyoncé (www.sortiraparis.com )). In recent seasons it has featured international stars like The Weeknd, Rammstein, Harry Styles and major French names, bringing thousands of fans on tour. The stadium can host up to ~80,000 for end-stage concerts; if producers place a stage at center, capacity can reach ~100,000 (stadiumdb.com ). Besides rock/pop, the venue has even accommodated large-scale shows and operas. It was also a site for cultural events during major sporting meets. In the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Stade de France is slated to host Olympic rugby sevens and athletics (July-Aug 2024), as well as both the Olympic and Paralympic closing ceremonies (www.stadefrance.com ). In short, almost every weekend brings something here – from international soccer friendlies and rugby tests to blockbuster concerts, making it a national showcase arena.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are normally sold through the stadium’s official channels or authorized sellers only. Sports matches (World Cup qualifiers, Six Nations, cup finals) usually have tickets released via the relevant French sports federations or the venue’s box office. Big concerts are often announced well in advance; tickets go on sale months ahead, sometimes with pre-sales for fan clubs or credit-card holders first. Best practice is to monitor the venue’s official site or a promoter’s announcement dates. Seating tiers range from budget outer-ring seats to premium lower-tier seats and exclusive boxes; prices reflect this. For example, in general sports games you might find affordable upper seats (tens of euros), whereas big artist concerts fetch higher prices (often well over €100 for close seats). The venue notes that you can even book parking at the same time as your event ticket (www.stadefrance.com ). In any case, buy only through official channels: there are no ticket booths selling last-minute seats on event day, and scalpers are illegal in France. Always expect tickets for major events to sell out fast, so purchasing early is key.
Seating and Layout
Stade de France has three main seating levels encircling the field. For sporting events, the finest views are typically in the lower stands at midfield; these seats are closest to the action. Side sections (along the long sides of the field) and mid-level rows also offer excellent sightlines. For concerts, it depends on the stage configuration: end-stage shows focus on the front lower bowl near the stage, while center-stage setups give equal views to all sides. The stadium’s most unique feature is its retractable seating. About 25,000 seats in the lower bowl can slide forward or sideways, exposing a full track and expanding capacity (stadiumdb.com ). In athletics mode, capacity is ~78,000; in music mode with a central stage, it can soar to 100,000 (stadiumdb.com ). The roof covers all the stands (13,000 tons of steel and glass (stadiumdb.com )), so nearly every spectator stays dry, though the central field is open. Another notable technical point: the sound and lighting rigs are built into the roof beams, not hanging off the sides (stadiumdb.com ). This means excellent acoustics and lighting – one heavy-metal concert even clocked 120 decibels backstage (stadiumdb.com ), highlighting the powerful integrated PA system. VIP and box seats ring the stadium’s top tier, each with private access. Sightlines are generally very good, though if a stage is set in a corner you may lose partial side views. In most configurations, no seat is truly “bad,” and the steep bowl means you can see the entire field or stage below clearly from almost any vantage.
Getting There and Parking
The stadium’s address is ZAC du Cornillon Nord, 93200 Saint-Denis, France (www.stadefrance.com ). As a major Paris venue, public transport is highly recommended. By train, use the RER suburban lines: RER B (exit at “La Plaine – Stade de France” station; ~4 minutes from Paris Nord station (www.stadefrance.com )) or RER D (“Stade de France – Saint-Denis” station; ~5 minutes from Paris Nord (www.stadefrance.com )). These stations are just a short (5–10 minute) walk across dedicated footpaths. Metro service is also nearby: take Paris Métro Line 13 to “Saint-Denis–Porte de Paris” or Line 12 to “Front Populaire,” both roughly 15–20 minutes travel from central Paris (www.stadefrance.com ). Additionally, Tramway Line T1 (Saint-Denis Basilique stop) and T8 (Porte de Paris stop) serve the area (www.stadefrance.com ). On event nights, trains run very frequently and often late into the evening (qeepl.com ). Driving is possible via the A1 (exit “Stade de France”) or A86 (exit “Saint-Denis – La Plaine Stade de France”) highways (www.stadefrance.com ), but note that parking is strictly limited: all parking spots must be reserved in advance when you buy your ticket (www.stadefrance.com ). The instruction is explicit: “No parking tickets are sold on event day” (www.stadefrance.com ). The lots P1 and P3 operate normally on non-event days, but on game day only cars with pre-purchased passes may enter (www.stadefrance.com ). For drop-off, taxis and rideshares typically use the south-side approach (Rue El Ouafi, by the south parking area) (www.stadefrance.com ). Cyclists have it easy: there are ~1,000 free bike parking racks on Rue de Brennus, just about 200 meters from a main gate (www.stadefrance.com ). In short, if you drive, plan ahead and book parking with your tickets; otherwise the train or tram is almost always faster. After a match or show, the crowd heads back to the RER and Metro, where extra service often runs to accommodate spectators.
Inside the Venue
Entering Stade de France, you should expect tight security: ticket scan and a quick bag check. The official policy bans large bags – no suitcases, travel totes, or backpacks over roughly 15 liters (www.stadefrance.com ). Professional photography or recording gear (DSLRs with removable lenses, tripods, GoPros, etc.) is also prohibited (www.stadefrance.com ). If you have an oversized or disallowed item, free luggage storage is set up right at each gate (www.stadefrance.com ). Once inside, the atmosphere is energetic and friendly. For food and drink, there are many concession stands on each level selling stadium staples (sandwiches, fries, hot dogs, soft drinks and beer). During sports you’ll also find the usual French casual fare – crépe stands, pastries and coffee – spread around the concourse. Merchandise stalls offer team jerseys and event souvenirs. Restrooms are generously provided on all levels near the stairs and escalators. Note that open alcohol is never allowed (only sealed water bottles under 50cl are typically permitted) and smoking is banned in the seating areas by French law. The venue is modern and well-equipped: it has no formal coat-check desks, but small personal lockers at the gates where you can stow items during an event (qeepl.com ). In terms of connectivity, there is no dedicated free Wi-Fi widely advertised, so plan to use mobile data or prepare offline directions. One nice feature is the attentive staff: for example, a visitor reported that a stadium attendant personally escorted a wheelchair guest to her accessible seat and pointed out the nearest accessible restroom (rollwithasmile.com ). Indeed, the stadium is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps at every level. Overall, expect a large, stadium-seating vibe – fans cheer and cheerleaders or music pump up the crowd, but it’s easy to walk around the mid-level concourse and grab a drink or use the restroom without missing the main action for long.
Nearby Amenities
Directly around Stade de France is a redeveloped district with various amenities. Within a 5–10 minute walk (via the parklands by the RER station), you’ll find casual restaurants and cafés – from fast-food burger and pizza spots to local French bistros – especially clustered near the La Plaine RER station. On event days those places are packed with fans. There are also a few sports bars and pubs where supporters gather before and after games. For larger meals or drink menus, many visitors go toward the nearby shopping/office center at La Plaine Saint-Denis, which has several restaurant chains and a supermarket. A few hotels – business-class and economy – are in the area (many near the Stade de France–St Denis RER D station / A1 highway), offering convenient stays if you’re touring from out of town. The key tip is to arrive early if you want to dine on-site: by 1–2 hours before kickoff or concert, the stadium district’s eateries can fill up quickly. After the event, few options are open late – most fans head directly to the station or a taxi point for a ride home. Overall, though the immediate area is not as nightlife-oriented as central Paris, it has all the basics (restaurants, cafés, pharmacies, hotels) and is generally safe and lit up on game nights. For an early evening meal or a beer before the match, the nearby La Courneuve area (one stop away) also has a cluster of French restaurants.
What Makes This Venue Special
Stade de France is special for many reasons. Architecturally, its dramatic sweeping roof and open sightlines make it visually stunning and instantly recognizable. It hosts “firsts”: France’s first fully national stadium in decades, with the largest capacity in the country. Historically, it’s where some of France’s greatest sporting moments occurred. The stadium’s creation for the 1998 World Cup and that final match (July 1998 France 3, Brazil 0) put it on the map. Since then it has seen legends on the field and stage. It’s also at the cutting edge of modern venue design:
technology-wise, its integrated sound/lighting roof structure (stadiumdb.com ) has meant spectacular productions (one metal band’s concert hit 120 dB backstage (stadiumdb.com )). The facility blends sport and pop culture; national celebrations (like the 2018 World Cup victory rally) unfolded here. It recently hosted the final games of Rugby World Cup 2023, and it will be central to Paris 2024 by hosting Olympic rugby sevens, track events and the big closing ceremonies (www.sortiraparis.com ) (www.stadefrance.com ). Locals often say few venues combine soccer, track, and music on such a scale. Even day-to-day, the neighborhood buzz shows its identity – from long lines of fans wearing team colors to grand fireworks displays on victory nights. In short, both performers and audiences love it because it can turn any event into an “arena event” – the crowd’s roar in a near-capacity stadium is unmatched. For visitors, attending a show or match here feels like being part of something iconic: huge, historic, and distinctly French yet world-class in appeal.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility – The stadium is fully wheelchair-accessible after recent upgrades. It completed a multi-phase accessibility program in 2022, with final approval in 2023 (www.stadefrance.com ). All levels have ramps and elevators. Disabled patrons can book special seats (PSH seats) through a dedicated online booking process and even add an assistant seat (www.stadefrance.com ). Stadium staff will assist with directions and seating – for example, staff have been known to personally escort wheelchair users to their seats and facilities (rollwithasmile.com ).
Arrival Time – Plan to arrive early. Gates typically open 60–90 minutes before the event. Security lines and ticket checks can take longer than expected, especially for big matches or concerts. Early arrival also lets you soak up pre-game atmosphere or watch warm-ups. If you want to dine in a nearby café, give yourself at least 2 hours before kickoff or showtime.
What to Bring – Pack light. Only small bags (roughly under 15L) are allowed (www.stadefrance.com ). Larger objects (suitcases, backpacks, large cameras, etc.) will be confiscated or asked to check. You can use the free bag-check at the gate if needed (www.stadefrance.com ). Carry your mobile phone (for your e-ticket) and ID for verification. In cooler months, a light jacket is smart (open sides of the stadium can be chilly). In summer, dress for heat – but note heat can bounce off the track. A plastic rain poncho (no metal frame) is often better than a bulky umbrella (umbrella handles and large bottles are banned).
Dress Code & Comfort – There’s no formal dress code: sports fans wear jerseys/Scarves, concertgoers dress casually. Comfort is key: you’ll walk up and down stairs. Wear comfortable shoes as you may stand frequently. If attending a festival-like concert, consider earplugs – the stadium has very loud sound (over 120 dB at one concert) (stadiumdb.com ).
Stadium Rules – Remember the prohibited items: no weapons, fireworks, glass, metal bottles, large flags/poles, laser pointers, outside alcohol, etc. (www.stadefrance.com ). You may bring own bottle of water (≤50 cl) without a cap. Cameras that are not pro (phones or compact cameras) are usually allowed. Smoking is only permitted outside the seating bowl by law (but almost no one smokes during events). Violating rules (like refusing to give up a disallowed item) can mean entry is denied.
Prohibited Items – To recap, things not allowed include: big bags (just like at a concert hall), professional camera/video gear, bottles over ~50cl, coolers, and any hostile or commercial signage (www.stadefrance.com ). There is a free cloakroom locker for smaller confiscated items at each entrance (qeepl.com ). It’s safest to assume a very strict line: leave valuables at home or in your car.
Food & Drink – Outside food is not prohibited so long as it’s in small containers (e.g. sandwiches, fruit, 50cl water bottles). Large outside meals or bulky coolers are discouraged. Inside, dozens of concessions sell everything from burgers, crêpes and fries to pizza, beer and wine. Lines at concession stands can get long at halftime or between acts, so head to a stand early or right at a scoring break. Liquor permits in France mean beer/wine are available on level (no hard liquor in stands).
Facilities – Restrooms (“sanitaires”) are frequent – you’ll always be within a short walk to one on any level. A free storage locker is available at each gate for personal items (qeepl.com ). There is generally no coat check, but you can stow jackets in the bench or lockers at your own risk. ATMs are usually not on site; bring cash or use nearby banks.
Connectivity – The stadium itself does not offer free Wi-Fi, so rely on your mobile plan. The RER station nearby has good coverage. If Bands often encourage you to use mobile tickets, so keep devices charged. In emergencies, info boards and PA announcements (in French and sometimes English) guide you.
Neighborhood – The surrounding area is safe and businesslike. Nearby landmarks include the Stade de France metro/RER and a Decathlon store. If you have time, the Parc de la Légion d’Honneur (a park around a school) is a nice place to stroll. After hours, most fans leave by train – Taxis line up on Rue El Ouafi and drop-offs happen there too (www.stadefrance.com ). Have that address or a landmark on hand when ordering a ride-share.
Children – Family attendance depends on the event. Sporting matches are all-ages (though very loud at times). Concerts usually advertise an age limit if any (some metal/rock shows might be 16+ or 18+). There is no childcare inside – any minor must have an adult. Note: the accessible seating areas can often fit a wheelchair and an accompanying adult seat.
Emergencies – Emergency exits are clearly marked. In any incident, follow staff instructions. The venue’s medical team is on call if needed. In a power outage or evacuation scenario, lights and signage are battery-backed, but it’s always good to know your shortest exit route.
Local Tips – French spectators are courteous: applause for good plays and sportsmanship is common. National anthem and team chants may be sung, and joining in is welcome. Camera flashes and phone calls are usually allowed during sports (less so during performances). If watching athletics, beware the gap to the track if you’re in front-row seating (the fence is low). And if ordering a taxi after, expect heavier traffic – consider walking a few blocks to a main road for pickup if possible.
Post-Event Transit – After a match, thousands will crowd the RER station. If you prefer to avoid the crush, wait for 10–15 minutes after the final whistle or encore break to let the first rush clear. The RER B and D lines often run extra trains. If you miss a ride or if service slows, taxis and ride-shares will queue at the designated spots (Rue El Ouafi on the south side) (www.stadefrance.com ). Bicycle riders can also retrieve their bikes from the SECURED park after the event.
How can I purchase tickets for events at Stade de France?
Tickets must be bought through official channels. For sports matches you typically purchase from the national team’s or league’s official ticketing office, and for concerts from the event promoter or the stadium’s ticket office. Watch for announcements on official websites or news outlets. Buying directly on the stadium’s official site or box office is safest; avoid unofficial resellers.
What are typical ticket prices for events?
Ticket prices vary widely by event and seating location. Sports match tickets often start in the 20s–30s (euros) for upper-tier seats, with lower-tier or midpoint seats costing more. Concert tickets start somewhat higher – dozens to over one hundred euros – depending on the popularity of the artist and the seat. VIP boxes and front-row seats can cost quite a bit more. Always check the event’s official site for the exact price range; there is no single “standard” price for every event.
Can I buy tickets at the stadium on event day?
For major matches or concerts, tickets usually need to be bought in advance online. There is often no walk-up ticket booth open for last-minute sales on game day. If any tickets remain, they might be available through an automated machine or the official box office before the event starts, but this is not guaranteed. In summary, plan to secure your tickets ahead of time.
What is the location/address of Stade de France?
Stade de France’s address is ZAC du Cornillon Nord, 93200 Saint-Denis, France (www.stadefrance.com ). It’s just north of central Paris. GPS coordinates (approx.) are 48.918°N, 2.351°E. In terms of transit, it lies just north of La Plaine (Paris Nord) train station.
Which public transit lines serve the stadium?
Multiple transit lines stop near the stadium. The fastest routes are Paris RER commuter trains: RER line B (station “La Plaine – Stade de France” is a ~4 minute walk (www.stadefrance.com )) and RER line D (“Stade de France – Saint-Denis,” ~5 minutes on foot (www.stadefrance.com )). Paris Métro (subway) also reaches nearby: Line 13 at Saint-Denis–Porte de Paris and Line 12 at Front Populaire (www.stadefrance.com ). Tramway lines T1 (Saint-Denis Basilique stop) and T8 (Saint-Denis – Porte de Paris stop) have stops within a short walk (www.stadefrance.com ). On event days these trains run frequently and late into the night (qeepl.com ). Overall, public transport access is excellent and usually quicker than driving in traffic.
Is there parking available, and how can I reserve it?
Yes, in theory there is parking around the stadium (several lots labeled P1, P2, P3, P4). However, parking is very limited on event days and must be booked in advance . The organizers explicitly instruct visitors that “no parking tickets are sold on event day” (www.stadefrance.com ). When you purchase your event ticket, you are usually given the option to reserve a parking spot at the same time (www.stadefrance.com ). Only vehicles with those pre-purchased passes will be admitted. If you plan to drive, be sure to buy the parking pass early. Otherwise, it’s much easier to take public transit.
Where do rideshares or taxis drop off and pick up?
Taxis and ride-sharing services typically use the south side of the stadium. There is a driveway on Rue El Ouafi (near the south parking lot P4) where cars can pull up for drop-off or pick-up (www.stadefrance.com ). This area is marked, and staff may direct traffic there on busy nights. If exiting by ride-share after the event, follow signs or app instructions for the designated staging area. During very large events it can take time to get a car, so plan accordingly.
Is there bicycle parking at the venue?
Yes, the stadium provides extensive bike racks. In fact, there are about 1,000 secure, free bicycle parking spots roughly 200 meters from the gates, on Rue de Brennus (www.stadefrance.com ). Cyclists can use these self-service racks at any time (they are available 24/7). This is a great option to avoid traffic if you live nearby.
Where are the best seats for viewing a game or concert?
The “best” seats depend on the event. For soccer or rugby games, midfield lower-level seats offer the clearest view of the play. For concerts, the lower bowl immediately in front of the stage is ideal for seeing the performers. Side sections near the stage also provide good angle. The elevated middle tier (level 3) gives a panoramic view of the field or stage if you prefer height. Avoid very steep end-zone seats or corners if possible; center-side views are generally safest. All seating is arranged so that sound carries well, and virtually any seat in the bowl allows a full view of the action after you get there.
Is there general admission or standing room?
It depends on the event. For most sports matches, seating is all assigned – no general admission. For concerts, however, there is sometimes a floor/field area open to standing ticket-holders or so-called “parterre.” If that option is offered, it means the area closest to the stage will not have seats and people stand (often in front of the stage or between levels). When buying concert tickets, check if “General Admission” is mentioned. Otherwise, assume all seating is reserved. Note: if the stage is at one end, the very front lower rows often sell out quickly and become the standing section.
Does Stade de France have VIP or box seating options?
Yes, the upper level includes VIP and corporate boxes. These are private or semi-private areas with armchairs and sometimes separate entrances. They offer excellent views and amenities (some even have catering). For concerts, these boxes often have prime sightlines at an extra cost. Regular premium tickets (front few rows of the lower bowl or special “VIP” sections) are also sold for select events. If you want a truly exclusive experience, look for official “VIP package” offerings – though these are relatively expensive. All such seats are still accessible via the main entrances; the stadium does not have a separate “VIP club deck” like some indoor arenas.
What is the bag policy at Stade de France?
Stade de France has strict security rules. In line with its official policy, **large bags are not allowed**. Specifically, no suitcases, large backpacks, hiking or sports bags are permitted (www.stadefrance.com ). Only small handbags or clear backpacks (roughly under 15 liters) can be brought in. If you have a prohibited item, there is a free left-luggage service at each gate where you can temporarily store it (www.stadefrance.com ). In short, come as lightly as possible – large items will be confiscated or refused entry.
Are outside food, drinks, or cameras allowed?
Certain items are permitted and some are banned. Small personal snacks or sealed bottles of water (500 ml or less) are generally OK. However, any outside glass bottles, large coolers, or alcohol are forbidden – no outside beer or wine is allowed (www.stadefrance.com ). Cameras depend on type: **phones and simple point-&-shoot cameras** are fine, but professional cameras with detachable lenses, GoPros, tripods, and the like are banned (www.stadefrance.com ). Do not bring professional video gear or anything aimed at commercial use. In essence, personal phone cameras are allowed; any bulky or “pro” equipment is not.
Is smoking allowed inside the stadium?
No. By French law, smoking is banned inside all spectator areas of the stadium. This includes cigarettes, vaping devices, or anything similar. You must go well outside the arena (typically past the outer perimeter fence) to smoke. During large events the staff will enforce this strictly. Expect no smoking in the stands or concourses – French venues are generally very strict on this.
Are there any dress codes or age restrictions?
Usually there is no formal dress code – casual and team attire are both common. For sports events, fans often wear team jerseys or colors, but jeans and shirts are fine. For concerts, just wear whatever is comfortable; the stadium has no special clothing rules. As for age, Stade de France does not have a blanket age limit, but event organizers might impose one. Children are typically welcome at football and rugby matches. Some concerts (especially very loud rock or explicit ones) may be 16+ or 18+, which the ticket info will note. Always check the age guidance for a given show. In short, there is no general age gate or fancy dress required – normal fan gear and family attendance are both fine unless a specific event states otherwise.
What food and beverages are available inside?
Inside the stadium you’ll find many concessions. Typical offerings include hot dogs, sandwiches, fries, crêpes, and pizza, along with soft drinks and beer/wine. Menus are similar to other large stadiums, with some French twist (e.g. crepes, coffee drinks). There are also stands selling ice cream or snacks. Prices are stadium-standard (moderate to high for Paris). Note that lines can form at halftime or intermission. If you have dietary needs, scan the concourse at the start of halftime to find what you need – most types of fast food are represented across the levels.
Are there restrooms, lockers, or coat checks?
Restrooms (toilets) are plentiful on every level; simply follow the signs for “Sanitaires.” You should seldom have far to walk to a bathroom. As for lockers, there are free small secure lockers at each main gate where you can leave a backpack or coat during an event (qeepl.com ). There is no formal coat-check counters, but you can use those free lockers or stow coats under seats at your own risk. The stadium advises to pack as little as possible, and the free gate lockers are there if you need them (qeepl.com ).
Are there accessibility services for disabled visitors?
Yes. Stade de France is fully accessible. There are ramps, elevators, and designated wheelchair seating areas with companion spots. Upgrades were completed in 2022 and officially certified in 2023 (www.stadefrance.com ). Disabled attendees can order special seats via a dedicated booking process online (www.stadefrance.com ). Wheelchair spaces are located in the lower bowl and allow a good view (staff will guide you to them). Accessible restrooms are available on each level. If you need help, just flag down any staff – the venue is accustomed to assisting wheelchairs and limited-mobility guests (rollwithasmile.com ).
What is the capacity of Stade de France and is it indoors or outdoors?
The official seating capacity is 81,338 (stadiumdb.com ), making it the largest stadium in France. With standing room on the field it can hold even more for concerts. The stadium is a mostly open-air design: it has a permanent roof over all the seating bowl (protecting spectators) but the playing field is exposed to the sky. In other words, fans sit under cover but the arena is not fully enclosed like an indoor arena.
When was Stade de France built and what major events has it hosted?
Stade de France was built in the late 1990s, opening in January 1998 (construction ran from 1995 through 1997) (stadiumdb.com ). It was expressly built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France – hosting the final (France 3–0 Brazil) that year. Since then it has hosted many international sporting events: Rugby World Cup finals, UEFA Euro finals (like 2016), Soccer World Cup matches, and annual domestic finals for football and rugby. It has also been a venue for concerts by global stars (Rolling Stones, Madonna, etc.). Upcoming highlight: it will host Olympic rugby sevens, track & field, and closing ceremonies for Paris 2024 (www.sortiraparis.com ) (www.stadefrance.com ).
Is Stade de France being used for the 2024 Summer Olympics?
Yes. Stade de France is one of the main Olympic venues. During Paris 2024 it will host the men’s and women’s rugby sevens tournaments (July 24–30), the track & field athletics competitions (Aug 1–11), and the Olympic Games closing ceremony (www.stadefrance.com ). It will then host the Paralympic athletics and the Paralympic closing ceremony (Aug 30–Sept 8) during the 2024 Summer Paralympics. In short, it will be the site of several key Olympic and Paralympic events in 2024.