Parc des Princes

History

Parc des Princes is an iconic football stadium in Paris’s 16th arrondissement. Built on the site of a 19th-century velodrome, its current incarnation was designed by Roger Taillibert and Siavash Teimouri and opened on May 25, 1972. It has served as the home of Paris Saint‑Germain since 1974 and was formerly the national stadium for France’s football and rugby teams. The venue has hosted numerous major tournaments—including FIFA World Cups (1938, 1998), UEFA European Championships (1960, 1984, 2016), and the 2024 Paris Olympics—and countless top-level matches.

Description

The stadium is an all-seater that accommodates around 48,583 spectators in league configuration (up to 50,370 for special events) with a hybrid GrassMaster pitch measuring 105 × 68 m. Its four covered stands—Tribune Paris, Borelli, Auteuil (Nord), and Boulogne (Sud)—create a highly atmospheric setting, known for its near-elliptical « bowl » design which enhances acoustics and crowd presence.

Architectural Features

The distinctive concrete ribs (“razors”) lining the roof’s ellipse and integrated under-roof lighting were pioneering when Parc des Princes opened. Its brutalist elegance, spacious concourses, and cutting-edge technology reflect its architectural significance. It remains a legally protected landmark in Paris and functional to UEFA Category 4 standards.

What is Paris Saint‑Germain?

Paris Saint‑Germain (PSG) is a top-tier French football club founded in 1970. Since taking residence at Parc des Princes in 1974, the club has grown from modest beginnings to become national champions and European contenders, transforming the stadium into one of France’s most vibrant football arenas.

Records

The all-time record crowd was 50,370 for France vs Wales rugby on February 18, 1989. Current league capacity is ~48,583, with record attendances often approaching sell‑outs for big matches. The stadium has hosted four UEFA European Championship final matches, three UEFA Champions League finals, and multiple Olympic games.