Stadium built in Johannesburg for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The design concept of the Stadium is the Calabash, or African pot.
This iconic, 87 436-seater is the largest Venue in South Africa, and the Country’s proud Global Colossal located in Nasrec, South of Johannesburg. The Unique Design of FNB Stadium is highly regarded, Internationally. It is often fondly referred to, as the “Calabash” or “African Pot” after being reconstructed, to the tune of R3.3 billion. In time for the first ever, African World Cup in 2010. Previously known as Soccer City, the Stadium has been the Centre of Historic Events, starting with the First Speech from Former President Nelson Mandela in 1990, a few days after being released from prison where he served 27 years. The venue has hosted the biggest Sports and Music Events, this Country has ever seen. Including the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, as well as the Final, of the 2010 FIFA World Cup ™. The Continental Africa Cup of Nations, Final in 2013, was also played at the Stadium.
FNB Stadium, as it is now known, regularly takes Centre Stage to full Houses for Domestic and International Football Matches. It is a preferred Podium of choice for the Soweto Derby, that involves two South African Premier Soccer League football giants; Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. International Rugby Test Clashes and the biggest Global Music Superstars; including U2, Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber. Have also featured here, to record attendances. FNB Stadium is, and has been, the go-to Platform for other Major Events in the country. Including the Funeral of Political activist Chris Hani, in 1993 and the moving Memorial Service and Tribute to Mandela, in 2013.
The South African Government has spent Billions on infrastructure, of theses World Cup Stadiums. To ensure that the 200 000 odd Visitors, will truly experience African Hospitality.
References
http://www.pringlebayratepayers.co.za/Pringle%20Post%20June%202010.pdf
https://www.stadiummanagement.co.za/stadiums/fnb/
Further Reading
https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/destination/host-country/
https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/preliminaries/
https://africa.espn.com/football/fifa-world-cup/story/3860182/2022-world-cup-how-qualifying-works-around-the-world
https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/preliminaries/