US-based architecture firm “Populous” has released a series of new conceptual images of the “Grand Stade Hassan II” in Casablanca, Morocco.
With a projected capacity of 115,000 spectators, the colossal structure will become the largest football stadium in the world.
Designed by Populous in collaboration with Paris-based architects “Oualalou + Choi,” the Grand Stade Hassan II is poised to be a centerpiece of Morocco’s football infrastructure.
The stadium will meet all FIFA standards and hopes to host the final of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. In addition, it will serve as the home ground for two local football clubs.
The stadium’s design is inspired by Morocco’s traditional social gatherings known as ‘moussem,’ the company said in a statement.
The standout feature of the stadium is its aluminum lattice roof, supported by 32 stairways that form gateways leading to gardens elevated 28 meters above the ground. The design also incorporates botanical gardens at ground level.
Groundwork for the 100-hectare site in El Mansouria, Benslimane, is already underway following public financing approval in October 2023. The project is being developed with the expertise of engineering firms “Maffeis Engineering,” “ME Engineering,” and “Rider Levett Bucknall.”
Christopher Lee, Managing Director of Populous for the EMEA region, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “We are incredibly proud to collaborate with our partners Oualalou + Choi on this extraordinary project.”
“The Grand Stade Hassan II will be an iconic venue for Morocco and for football, standing among the greatest stadiums in the world,” Lee added.
Tarik Oualalou, Design Principal and founding partner at Oualalou + Choi, highlighted the cultural significance of the stadium, saying that the Grand Stade Hassan II is “deeply rooted in Moroccan culture,” and combines “ancient traditions with contemporary design.”
Meanwhile, François Clément, Senior Principal and President of Populous France, added that the stadium will provide “exceptional spaces and experiences for fans and visitors, reflecting King Mohammed VI’s vision to elevate Morocco’s football infrastructure to a global standard.”