Paris 2024 Games: the Stade de France in tune with the times

Inaugurated in 1998, the Stade de France has become the benchmark sports arena in France. This summer, it will be at the heart of the Olympic excitement, adapted as it should be to the challenges of 2024.

At just 26 years of age, the Stade de France is one of the greats. One Football World Cup Final (1998), two Rugby World Cup Finals (2007, 2024), three Champions League Finals (2000, 2006, 2022)... The list of major events that have taken place in the stadium located in Saint-Denis is impressive, and testifies to the prestige enjoyed by the athletes who will be performing there.

Greatness and versatility

Built as part of the Football World Cup organised in France in 1998, this arena was inaugurated on 28 January 1998 by the then President of the Republic, Jacques Chirac, during a football match between France and Spain. Now, 26 years later, the stadium is taking another step forward in its young and magnificent history by hosting Olympic (rugby 7s, athletics) and Paralympic (Para athletics) events, as well as the closing ceremonies. An eclectic programme that underlines the versatility of the infrastructure, which can also host huge concerts and shows.

Ready for the Paris 2024 Games

In the run-up to the Paris 2024 Games, the Stade de France is undergoing renovation work. Lighting, accessibility, the athletics track and the electricity network have all been upgraded to ensure that the venue will be able to shine during the Games. These improvements are in line with the environmental objectives set by the Organising Committee. Indeed, in the face of the climate emergency, the organisers of major international sporting events must assume their share of responsibility and transform their model. That's why Paris 2024 is proposing a new kind of organisation: one that is more sober, more responsible and with the legacy at the heart of the project.

• Lighting: 650 LEDs have been installed at the Stade de France, reducing energy requirements by almost 80% compared with conventional lighting, for the Games and future sporting events. The new LED lighting will also enable the stadium to host illuminated shows during the matches to enhance the spectator experience.

• Surfacing: as well as being unforgettable for its purple colour, the new Stade de France athletics track is eco-designed using rubber and over 50% renewable materials, to reduce the amount of material coming from fossil sources.

• Energy: during major events, it was common to rely on fossil fuel-powered generators to provide sufficient power. For the Games and their legacy, the competition and non-competition venues, including the Stade de France, have been connected to the network with Enedis, Official Supporter of Paris 2024, limiting the need to use generators. During the Games, 100% renewable electricity, supplied by EDF, will light up the athletes' performances.

And also

The largest capacity stadium in France (80,000 seats), the Stade de France is designed to adapt to the competitions it hosts. For example, its 25,000-seat lower stand is mobile (it can be moved 15 metres) to house or protect the athletics track. Another original feature is that the pitch and stands are eleven metres lower than the stadium forecourt, so as not to exceed the height of the Saint-Denis basilica.