Populous Unveils Design for the World's Largest Football Stadium Ahead of the 2030 World Cup

As Morocco gears up to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, the country has presented a monumental design for the Grand Stade Hassan II, Hypebeast reports.

Located in Benslimane, just outside Casablanca, the state-of-the-art arena is set to claim the title of the world’s largest football stadium. With a massive capacity of 115,000 spectators, this mega-project will serve as a central hub for the upcoming tournament, showcasing Morocco's ambitious plans to elevate its international sports infrastructure and solidify its standing on the global stage.

The architectural concept—conceived by the legendary firm Populous in collaboration with Paris-based studio Oualalou + Choi—is deeply rooted in regional traditions. The visual identity draws inspiration from the moussem, a traditional Moroccan cultural festival and gathering.

The centerpiece of the structure is a soaring, tent-like roof crafted from a spatial aluminum lattice. The draped canopy not only ensures effective protection from the sun and rain but also creates an iconic silhouette that seamlessly blends ancient heritage with cutting-edge engineering.

Beyond the main football pitch, the Grand Stade Hassan II complex will feature:

• State-of-the-art training facilities;

• Aquatic centers;

• Hotels, retail hubs, and entertainment districts.

Thanks to this multi-functional approach, the stadium will thrive long after the World Cup concludes, serving as a new anchor for urban growth and a vibrant regional hub for cultural exchange.