The Moroccan venue topped the international voting with 14,481 points, finishing ahead of Grand Stade de Tanger in second place and Claro Arena in third.

A total of 7,451 valid votes were cast by fans worldwide who evaluated 28 stadiums opened globally in 2025, judging them on architectural design, functionality and overall fan experience.

Morocco’s New National Stadium

Located in the Moroccan capital of Rabat, the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium has become the country’s new national football arena and one of the largest stadiums in North Africa.

The modern facility boasts a capacity of approximately 68,700 spectators and was designed to meet FIFA’s highest stadium standards, positioning it as a potential venue for major international matches, including possible semi-final fixtures of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

The stadium represents a major investment in Morocco’s sports infrastructure as the country prepares to co-host the global tournament alongside Spain and Portugal.

From 1983 Landmark to Modern Arena

The site has long been associated with Moroccan football. The original stadium, built in 1983, served as the home ground of AS FAR Rabat and regularly hosted matches involving the Moroccan national team.

The old Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium before demolition in 2023

Over the decades, the venue staged several major tournaments and international fixtures, including the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations, matches of the FIFA Club World Cup, and multiple African club and national team finals.

In preparation for future global competitions, Moroccan authorities decided to completely rebuild the facility. The original structure was demolished in 2023, paving the way for a new state-of-the-art arena constructed in less than two years.

Modern Facilities and Expanded Capacity

The redevelopment project, which cost approximately $75 million, significantly expanded the stadium’s capacity while transforming it into one of Africa’s most technologically advanced football venues.

Key features of the new stadium include High-definition LED video screens, advanced acoustics and sound systems, a hybrid natural-synthetic playing surface, modern hospitality and VIP areas, and enhanced spectator comfort and accessibility

The stadium is also the centrepiece of the wider Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, which includes a 21,000-seat Olympic athletics stadium, training pitches, an indoor sports arena and an Olympic-size swimming pool.

Shortly after reopening in 2025, the stadium played a central role during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where it hosted several high-profile matches, including the tournament final.

Packed crowds and vibrant atmospheres during the competition showcased Morocco’s rapidly modernising football infrastructure and reinforced the stadium’s reputation as one of the continent’s premier sporting venues.

Winning the Stadium of the Year 2025 award further highlights Morocco’s growing influence in global sports infrastructure as the country continues preparations for hosting major international competitions in the coming years.

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