Although it only opened in 2022, the Sydney football stadium has quickly assumed the status of being one of Australia’s most impressive sports venues.
The official home of three major sporting codes, it is also a concert venue that has attracted some of the biggest names in the music business.
If you live in Sydney and love sports and music, the chances are you will be visiting it in the not-too-distant future.
So, with that in mind, let us tell you a little bit more about it.
About the Stadium
The Sydney Football Stadium, also known as Allianz Stadium, is a modern multi-purpose sports venue located in the heart of Sydney.
The stadium first opened in 1988 but was knocked down and replaced with a brand new stadium which was built by the construction firm John Holland. All up it cost A$828 million and took over two years to complete.
Overall the stadium can accommodate a capacity of 42,50 and features state-of-the-art facilities, including a retractable roof and cutting-edge audiovisual technology.
It is a world-class stadium that has set a new benchmark when it comes to venues that present professional sports.
What Sports Are Played at the Sydney Football Stadium?
The main sports that are played at the stadium are NRL, rugby union and soccer.
The venue is currently the home of the Sydney Roosters and South Sydney Rabbitohs in the NRL. Both of them set the attendance record of 41, 906 when they played each other on 2nd September 2022.
Additionally, it is anticipated that some State of Origin games might be played on the ground in the coming years.
In rugby union, the venue is the home to the NSW Waratahs. It has also hosted international matches featuring the Australian men’s national team.
Switching codes to soccer, the ground is the home of Sydney FC who play A-League matches here. The Australian women’s national team have also played international games, while the women’s world cup is scheduled to take place in July 2023.
The stadium is also pencilled in to host matches in the 2027 Rugby World Cup and be a regional venue for some events that will take place at the 2032 Summer Olympics.
Other Events
As well as the sporting events, the stadium is well set up to accommodate concert performances.
On its official opening night of 28 August 2022, Guy Sebastian performed at a free community event. Not long after, Bruno Mars put on two concerts, as did Sir Elton John during his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour.
Other gig scheduled to take place include Pink and Robbie Williams.
Facilities
The Sydney Football Stadium boasts world-class facilities that make it a premier venue for sporting and entertainment events. The stadium has a seating capacity of 42,500 and features modern amenities that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors.
One of the standout features of the Allianz Stadium is its state-of-the-art roof, which is designed to provide maximum comfort and protection for spectators, rain or shine. The roof covers all three levels of seating areas, ensuring that fans are protected from the elements while still enjoying an open-air experience.
The stadium also features a large video screen that provides clear and high-quality visuals for spectators. It also has LED lighting which is illuminated in the colours of the home team during match day and enhances the overall viewing experience.
Within the ground, for the pro-athletes and private members, other facilities include a state-of-the-art fitness centre, training rooms for cycle and yoga classes, two squash courts, a virtual golf studio, fitness assessment rooms, and both an outdoor and indoor swimming pool.
The stadium’s facilities even incorporate a day spa with four separate treatment rooms and childminding services.
How to get to the stadium
Getting to the Sydney Football Stadium is easy, thanks to its central location and excellent transport links. The venue is situated in Moore Park, just a few kilometres southeast of Sydney’s CBD, so it is easily accessible by car, a train, bus, or light rail.
For those driving, the stadium offers limited on-site parking, which can be pre-booked online. Due to the popularity of events at the stadium, parking spots can fill up quickly. So, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot if you don’t book in advance.
Alternatively, visitors can take public transport to the venue. The closest train station is Central Station, which is only a short bus or light rail ride away. Regular bus services also operate to and from the
stadium, with a dedicated shuttle bus service running from Central Station on event days.
Another popular option is to take the light rail, which has a stop at Moore Park, just a short walk from the stadium. The light rail runs from Central Station through the city centre and provides a convenient and hassle-free way to get to the stadium.
Food in ground
Food is a major part of the match and concert experience for many spectators and in this respect, the Sydney Football Stadium does not disappoint.
Overall, the stadium features over 64 food and beverage outlets located throughout the concourse, offering something for every taste and budget.
Fast food options include Queen Chow dumplings, burgers from Burger Shack, chicken meals from Chicken Shop, Jimmy’s Falafel wraps, and hot dogs and tacos from El Loco. There are also other outlets selling fish and chips, pies, pizza and sushi.
For those looking for something more upscale, the stadium also features Ms G’s Noodles & Dumplings, Totti’s Pasta Bar and Bert’s.
In addition, there are several bars within the stadium, as well as coffee shops and kiosks offering a variety of hot and cold drinks.
Accommodation near the ground
If you need a place to stay overnight, there are plenty of accommodation options available near Allianz Stadium in Sydney. They range from budget-friendly hotels and hostels to luxury apartments and boutique hotels, so cater to all preferences.
Some of the popular areas to stay near the stadium include the Sydney CBD, Darlinghurst, and Surry Hills, all of which offer easy access to it as well as a range of amenities.
For those on a budget, hostels such as the Sydney Central YHA and Bounce Hostel offer affordable accommodation with basic amenities and good public transport links. Mid-range options include hotels such as the Adina Apartment Hotel and the Vibe Hotel, which offer comfortable rooms and a range of facilities such as fitness centres and swimming pools.
For those looking for a more luxurious stay, there are several high-end hotels and serviced apartments located near the stadium. A couple of the more notable ones are the Meriton Suites and the Pullman Sydney Hyde Park. Both offer spacious rooms, upscale amenities and a range of dining options.
As Sydney is a very busy city, wherever you choose to stay, you are advised to book your accommodation in advance. Doing this will ensure you can access the best availability and rates, especially during peak periods and major events.
Good pubs to visit
There are several good pubs located near the Sydney Football Stadium, making it easy for visitors to grab a drink or meal before or after the game. One of the most popular pubs in the area is The Shakespeare Hotel, located just a short walk from the stadium. This traditional English pub features a range of beers on tap, as well as a classic pub menu.
Another terrific option is The Royal Hotel in Paddington. Located just a short distance from the stadium, this historic pub offers a range of craft beers, cocktails, and pub-style food. It also features a spacious outdoor courtyard.
Likewise, the Australian Youth Hotel is a nice venue to visit pre- or post-game. It offers a cosy atmosphere and a range of craft beers and pub food. The hotel also has a large outdoor area with plenty of seating, making it a great spot to relax with friends and enjoy a drink.
For those looking for something more upscale, The Paddington is a stylish gastropub that presents a delightful menu of contemporary Australian cuisine and a carefully curated wine list. With its chic decor and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a drink or meal on match day.
Quick Stats
Address: 40–44 Driver Avenue, Moore Park, Sydney, NSW 2021
Capacity: 42,500
Opened: 2022
Field size: 140 metres × 90 metres (old stadium)
Record attendance: 41,906 (Sydney Roosters v South Sydney Rabbitohs, 2 Sep 2022)