In this video, we explore the World’s Most Beautiful Arenas of 2025, selected by Prix Versailles, showcasing cutting-edge sports architecture across China, Germany, France, Japan, and the United States. These five standout venues demonstrate how modern arenas are evolving into civic landmarks, blending culture, community, and design excellence.
Featured Arenas (with architects/designers):
Xi’an International Football Centre – Xi’an, China Architect: Zaha Hadid Architects A 60,000-seat saddle-shaped stadium featuring a translucent membrane roof, south-facing terraces, and panoramic views of the Qin Mountains.
SAP Garden – Munich, Germany Architect: 3XN A 62,500 m² multi-sport arena in Olympic Park with capacity for ice hockey (10,700) and basketball (11,500), featuring an artificial hill roof and community terraces.
Le Colisée – Chartres, France Architect: Groupe-6 An elliptical hall inspired by ancient theatres, linked by footbridge to transit, and featuring a rooftop garden and public promenade on a transformed industrial site.
Kagawa Prefectural Arena (Anabuki Arena Kagawa) – Takamatsu, Japan Architect: SANAA A gently undulating roof inspired by nearby islands, with large picture windows and soft pastel interiors connecting city, sea, and park.
Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, USA Architect: Trahan Architects A renewal of the iconic Superdome, adding three light-filled corner atria and an aluminium rod façade while preserving its historic character.
These award-winning arenas highlight how global sports venues are becoming multi-purpose, culturally integrated and architecturally ambitious a trend increasingly mirrored in major developments across the Middle East.
