The 2010 South Africa World Cup Guide

On June 11th, millions of soccer fans around the world will proudly bare the colors of their country on their back as the 2010 World Cup begins in South Africa. Below you will find a mash up of stats and insights about each venue, key match ups and points of interest for each World Cup location.

Ellis Park Stadium - aka – Coca-Cola Park

Stadium Stats:

Johannesburg, South Africa
Opened: 1928 – demolished and rebuilt in 1982
Capacity: 62,000
Home Field of: Kaiser Chiefs

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

Named after Johannesburg’s City Councilman JD Ellis
It was the first black-owned stadium in South Africa (2005)
In addition to Football, the stadium exemplifies the quality of Rugby in South Africa, as it is home to the Golden Lions.

Highlights:

state-of-the-art media facilities
top class VIP areas for dignitaries
top tier audio and video capabilities

About the Area:

Johannesburg is home to a progressive and vibrant lifestyle. It is home to some of South Africa’s best kept secrets, also. For example, the township of Soweto is a site brimming with history, as it was once a hotbed of struggle during Apartheid. Nonetheless, it now proves to be a cultural cornerstone of the city, and is home to such sites as Kliptown, Oppenheimer Tower and Credo Mutwa Cultural Village, and Nelson Mandela’s house. While in Johannesburg, you might also want to check out a few of the other attractions, as they are plentiful for any type of traveler. If you’re the more adventurous type, Jo’burg is the perfect locale such high endorphin thrills as rock climbing, mountain biking, and even sand boarding. You might also want to check out opportunities to view a different type of game – that is – if you’re up for seeing nature at its finest. Consider a stay at the Lion Lodge, and take an adventure into the African bush to see such creatures as lions, hippos and giraffes. If you’re going to Africa, you might as well enjoy some of what it is renowned for.

Cape Town Stadium – aka – Green Point Stadium

Stadium Stats:

Cape Town, South Africa
Opened: 2010 (rebuilt over previous Green Point Stadium in preparation for the World Cup)
Capacity: 69,070
Home Turf: Santos Football Club

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

The Original Greenpoint Stadium was the locale of several major concert events, including shows by U2, Michael Jackson, and Metallica, among others.
Recently hosted inaugural event on January 23. 2010 to a crowd of 20,000. The match featured the Ajax Cape Town Football Club vs. Santos.
Post World Cup plans include continuing to host major events such as concerts, Rugby matches and of course, Football.

Highlights:

Designed to seat 60K+ spectators close to the action, but is able to be evacuated in 15 minutes.
State of the art surveillance system offers security and safety among spectators.
95% of materials used were recycled from the old stadium, and the newly renovated arena is considered highly energy efficient.
500 toilets and 360 urinals.

About the Area:

Cape Town is a beautiful and colorful city. There is plenty to do around Green Point while attending the World Cup, so if you’re up for adventure or just want to take in some fantastic sites, you won’t be disappointed. For shopping, there’s not much out there like the Green Point Flea Market. Every Sunday, the area around Greenpoint Stadium turns into a musical and thriving bazaar. You can pick up some traditional African art as well as listen to local musicians play among the crowds. If shopping isn’t your thing, and you want a real thrill ride, why not go and swim with shark infested waters? Go Great White Shark hunting for a thrill that is unique to South African seas. These sharks are the real deal, but there are plenty of business with whom you can book a shark diving trip, so don’t go venturing out there on your own! And if you’re in the mood to hit the links, Greenpoint’s Metropolitan Golf Course is a great way to take in the outdoor splendor of the area, as the course is in eye shot of Table Mountain.

Moses Mabhida Stadium – aka – Kings Park Stadium

Stadium Stats:

Durban, South Africa
Opened: 2009
Capacity: 70,000+
Home Turf: South African Football Association

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

Named for Moses Mabhida, a hero of the workforce and former General Secretary of the South African Communist Party.
Construction was recently completed for this mega-stadium, its inaugural event was between Amazulu and Maritzburg United on the November 29th, Maritzburg United 1-0.
Winner of several prestigious awards for architecture, including the SAICE Branch Award for Technical Excellence (Durban) 2008.

Highlights:

Supported by 1,750 columns and 216 raking beams.
State of the art suites.
Surrounded by 100 columns.
The People’s Park, to open in March 2010, features a Heroes’ Walk, which commemorates great South Africans.
Will feature a beachfront promenade.

About the Area:

You don’t even have to leave the stadium to experience the wonders here. A giant arch bows over the arena, which boasts some attractions of its very own. Visitors can climb aboard the Skycar, which then hoists them to the highest point of the stadium to see an encompassing view of the landscape. More adventurous travelers can test their tolerance for heights and take an Adventure Walk up the arch and back again. Durban has plenty else to offer, too. If you’re a foodie with an interest in burgers, then you’ll want ot give the best burger in Durban a try. Head to the Deluxe Burger Bar for gourmet burgers of all tastes. They’ve got an array of toppings including interesting and gourmet choices like mango salsa or beetroot and red bean. Looking for a little nightlife? Try Joe Cools, a relaxing, but fun atmosphere that serves up some exciting cocktails. Judging from the pictures on their website, this place can also get a little wild.

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

Stadium Stats:

Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Opened: 2009
Capacity: 48,000
Home Turf: primarily used for rugby matches.

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

One of 5 new stadiums built for World Cup 2010 events.
Was one of the first of the new stadiums to be completed, despite rumors that it would not be finished in time for the January 2010 deadline.
Construction cost $270 Million.
Hosted the Miss World Sports event of the Miss World 2009 competition.
Hosted the 2009 edition of the Premier’s Cup on July 4, 2009.

Highlights:

Seats are different colors from light orange to dark red, seemingly at random. This was done to make the stadium always appear full.
The roof is constructed of a series of white ‘petals’ giving it the appearance of a flower. Therefore it is appropriately nicknamed “The Sunflower”.
The stadium was constructed overlooking a lake.
150 VIP suites
60 business suites
Two large viewing screens for field level viewing.

About the Area:

There are all sorts of activities to keep you going in Port Elizabeth. Interested in showing your pals who is a crack shot? Take a paintball adventure at Paintball Heaven. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, you can come and fling some paint here in a scenic atmosphere. If you fancy the great seas, then Port Elizabeth is a haven for someone with your tendencies. You can find a bevy of places to scuba dive or snorkel, including the Bell Buoy Reef, which covers over 5 acres. The area is also known as Roman Rocks due to the large number of Red Roman fish there. If you want to swim in a different kind of sea, the sea of cash, then test your luck at The Boardwalk Casino. You can play games until you are cashed out or until you are ready to cash in. Who needs Vegas?

Mbombela Stadium – aka – The Giraffe Stadium

Stadium Stats:

Nelspruit, South Africa
Opened: 2009
Capacity: 46,000
Home Turf: none yet, but will host rugby and football matches post World Cup 2010

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

Made possible by taxpayer funding.
Adjacent to Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Africa.
Ground broke in 2007, and the arena was completed in 2009, well before the deadline for the World Cup.

Highlights:

18 roof supports that resemble giraffes surround the arena, giving it the nickname The Giraffe Stadium.
Designed for optimal viewing ability by placing 3 tiers of seats staggered so that each one is as close to the action as possible.

About the Area:

Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in Africa, is larger than Israel. If you are ready for the adventure you will never forget, take a tour of this majestic area. Taking a safari at this destination is a paramount activity while in South Africa, and if you’re lucky enough to be catching a game at Mbombela, it is practically necessary to take a trip here. With the wildlife in abundance, you’ll truly see what makes Africa so special. If you’re looking to get a little deeper into Africa, then you might consider going below ground to check out Sudwala Caves. these magnificent caves will make you realize just how vast our world is. Take a tour, but don’t worry about coming across any creatures here, the only thing you might see are some tiny bats.

Soccer City Stadium – aka – FNB Stadium

Stadium Stats:

Johannesburg, South Africa
Opened: 1989, renovated and reopened in 2009
Capacity: 94,700
Home Turf: South African Football Association

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

Most of the largest football events in Africa are conducted here.
Home of the 1996 African Cup of Nations.
Home to some of the most memorable matches in African football history.

Highlights:

Largest Football stadium in Africa.
Design was inspired by traditional African pottery.
Spectators will be no more than 100 meters (330ft) from the action with no restricted views.

About the Area:

For visitors who are interested in art and leisure, nothing quite beats Joburg. The Bensusan Museum of Photography boasts a wonderful collection of photographic records as well as cameras of yesteryear. The museum is perched on the top floor of the Museum of Africa. Speaking of museums, there may not be a more unique example than the Origins Centre. This interesting locale examines where we came from, and takes a look at the history that has broguht us through evolution. Artifacts including the earliest image created by man, found in South Africa, can be viewed here. The museum has lots of other features, so if you are ready for the most intriguing of all history lessons, start at the Origins Centre. And as for leisure, you can really have an opportunity to pamper yourself at the Botanica Spa at The Westcliff. You can have an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate at this luxurious and soothing locale, which overlooks a botanical garden.

Loftus Versfeld Stadium – aka – Eastern Sports Ground or Minolta Loftus

Stadium Stats:

Pretoria, South Africa
Opened: 1906, often upgraded until 2009
Capacity: 51,762
Home Turf: Sundowns Football Club

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

Named for Robert Owen Loftus Versfeld, the founder of organized sports in Pretoria.
Home to several music concerts, including Robbie Williams, Celine Dion, and others.
Home ground of Rugby’s Blue Bulls franchise in South Africa’s Currie Cup.

Highlights:

Upgraded floodlights, sound system and scoreboard.
Hoe of the Sundowns Football Club, one of South Africa’s premiere professional clubs.

About the Area:

Pretoria is a great area for music, sports and all over fun. If you’re a movie buff, you might want to take the opportunity to check out the Menlyn Drive-In. This drive-in is atop a shopping mall and allows visitors to watch a film and tune in to the audio on their own radios. If you like food and fun, then look no further than Just Cuban. With menu offerings of everything from Grilled Haloumi to Fillet Volcano, Just Cuban will have something to delight your taste buds. The restaurant also hosts special events and dancing. If performance arts are your thing, then give The SA State Theater a shot. This theater hosts musicals and live theater events year round. Check out a concert at Sunday Morning Concerts by The Black Tie Ensemble.

Free State Stadium – aka – Vodacom Park

Stadium Stats:

Bloemfontein, South Africa
Opened: 1952, revamped 2008
Capacity: 48,000
Home Turf: Bloemfontein Celtic

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

One of the host venues for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.
Home to South Africa’s most fanatical group of supporters, Bloemfontein’s natives are known for their passion for sport.

Highlights:

New turnstiles were erected, the floodlights upgraded, electronic scoreboards installed and the sound system was revamped.
May garner the most attention of the World Cup, as it is host to the first and last matches of the event.

About the Area:

If you’ve ever wanted to jump out of a perfectly good airplane, this is your chance. In Bloemfontein, you can live out your dreams to take to the skies and skydive over a beautiful landscape. While skydiving isn’t for everyone, the most adventurous World Cup fans can catch some real wind and hop out of a plane onto a dream drop zone. For those of us who are more apt to keep both feet planted on the ground, but still have an interest in what’s beyond the stratosphere, there’s Boyden Observatory. You can explore the cosmos in this historic and accessible observatory that will no doubt leave you wondering about the vastness of outer space, or at least curious as to how many stars are out there. For another sport fans go crazy for, there’s the Choet Visser Rugby Museum. Here, you’ll learn about the history of this high contact sport, as well as see highlights of some of the best players to ever set cleats on the field. This spot houses over 200 jerseys right off the players’ backs.

Royal Bafokeng Stadium

Stadium Stats:

Rustenberg, South Africa
Opened: 1999
Capacity: 42,000
Home Turf: Royal Bafokeng Nation

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

Construction was completely funded by the Royal Bafokeng community.
Cost $45 M to build.
Named after the Bafokeng, the native people of the area.
In 1999, the Bafokeng won a legal battle, granting them 20% of the platinum which is mined on their historical land.

Highlights:

New electronic scoreboards.
New seats.
Upgraded floodlights and public address system.
25 minute drive to Sun City.

About the Area:

For an experience on getting close to real nature for adventure buffs and thrill seekers alike, be sure to check out the Magaliesberg Canopy Tour.This opportunity will allow you to see the beauty of the jungle in a controlled and educational way, all the while you’ll be having so much fun, you’ll forget you are far from home. Climb mountains, scale rock faces and zip down lines while seeing some amazing sights. As we’ve mentioned before, there is no lack of exotic wildlife in Africa, and a cadre of places to take it all in. One such place is Pilanesberg National Park, which is home to virtually every mammal in southern Africa. The park is on the cusp of a long dormant volcano, and much of the landscape has its appearance because of the once destructive eruptions. It’s not going off again though, so you won’t need to rush through your tour.

Peter Mokaba Stadium

Stadium Stats:

Polokwane, South Africa
Opened: 2010
Capacity: 46,000
Home Turf: none yet

Stadium Map:

Matches:

History:

Named for Peter Mokaba, former leader of the ANC Youth League and a controversial anti-apartheid activist.
Located just east of the existing Pietersburg Stadium.
One of 5 new stadiums built specifically for World Cup 2010.

Highlights:

After World Cup 2010, the venue will become a home to local soccer teams, as well as other sports events like rugby.
First stadium in the “soccer crazy” area of Polokwane.

About the Area:

This area is well suited for shoppers and consumers, as it is home to several large shopping malls. You can also try to catch one of the market days at Polokwane’s Trading Post. Select from wares at over 20 stalls offering a wide variety of goods such as clothes, jewelery, antiques, arts and crafts, and more. Polokwane is also home to several nature reserves, so you can check out animals of all shapes and sizes. Perhaps most unique is the Modjadji Cycad Reserve, which is the home to the largest concentration of a single cycad species in the world. Cycads are essentially giant palm type trees, which create a magnificent and awe inspiring landscape. For those looking for worship, this area is also home to Zion City. It is home to the largest Christian gathering in South Africa, and individuals trek by any means of transportation to make the twice annual pilgrimage. This holy site is truly a site to behold.

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