The Shay
England
Capacity
80000
About this place
History
The Stade des Martyrs was inaugurated in 1994 under the name Stade Kamanyola before being renamed to honor the four political martyrs executed under Mobutu Sese Seko’s regime. Built to replace the old Stade Tata Raphaël, it was designed as a symbol of national pride and unity. Since its opening, it has hosted countless matches of the DR Congo national football team as well as key political and cultural gatherings.
Architecture
The stadium has an official capacity of around 80,000 spectators, making it one of the largest arenas in Africa. It features a traditional bowl design with an athletics track encircling the football pitch, as well as multiple tiers of seating. Over the years, the venue has undergone renovations to modernize facilities, upgrade security systems, and improve accessibility for large-scale international competitions.
Location
Located in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Stade des Martyrs is situated in the commune of Kinshasa along key transport routes, making it accessible for fans across the city. Its central position also allows it to serve as a focal point for national events and gatherings.
Why the Stadium is Special
The Stade des Martyrs holds a unique place in Congolese culture as more than just a sports venue. It is the home ground of the national team, the Leopards, and regularly hosts CAF competitions and FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Beyond sports, it is also a site of political rallies, concerts, and national celebrations, embodying both athletic and cultural significance for the country.
