France reveal stadium plans

Published: Friday, 29. June, 2012 in category France
Stade de France: New plans to replace it

The French Rugby Federation (FFR) on Friday outlined their vision for the 82,000-seater facility due to be built in Evry - 25km south of Paris - and expected to be ready to open in 2017.

The stadium will feature a retractable roof and removable pitch, with the FFR anticipating it will be able to stage at least 20 events a year, including concerts.

The project, which is expected to cost around 600million euros, will also feature hotels and shops over 133 hectares - currently the site of a disused racecourse.

"It conforms to what we want," said FFR president Pierre Camou.

"One of the most modern stadiums in the world: pitch, roof, multi-functional, with exceptional comfort levels for spectators."

The Evry bid succeeded ahead of that of Thiais-Orly, situated close to Paris' Orly Airport.