Investor: Euro Poznań 2012 Sp. z o.o.
Consortium Leader: Hydrobudowa Polska S.A.,
Consortium Partners: PBG SA, AK-BUD Kurant sp.j., Alpine Construction Polska Sp. z o.o., AlpineBauDeutschland AG, AlpineBau GmbH
The City Stadium in Poznań was the first arena built ahead of Euro 2012. The moment Poland and Ukraine were named the organisers of the 2012 European Football Championships, the city authorities decided to reconstruct and extend the old stadium, so that it could hold 44,000 spectators.
The ground-level spectator stands have been replaced with elevated reinforced-concrete structures. Also, the old roof has been modified reflect a new architectural vision. The design of the renovated roofing was inspired by a spider web – the nature’s perfect architectural structure. The spider web is light, yet made of one of the most resilient materials in the world. The stadium in Poznań leaves the spectator with the same impression, as its structure is feather light, yet sturdy and stable.
The roof above the stadium is one-of-a-kind, incorporating the newest solutions designed to ensure safety and functionality. The frame of the roof is a steel structure supporting a membrane the colour of undyed silk, with a total surface area of 40,000 square metres.
Two giant outdoor screens – the largest among all screens installed at Polish venues of Euro 2012 – will enable spectators to enjoy replays and close-ups. The stadium’s sound system comprises 164 speakers, 86 of which are located in the VIP area; 320 precise spotlights will light the playing field, and 12 cameras will be used for TV broadcasts.
City Stadium in Poznań in numbers
- Stadium Capacity: over 45 000 seats
- Membrane surface: 40 000 m2
- Weight of roof construction: 7 611 tones
- The center of the pitch: 157 m above sea-level
- Dimensions of the pitch: 105 m x 68 m
- 2 LED screens: 115 m2 each
- Stands : 30 000 m3 of concrete reinforced with 7000 tons of high quality construction steel
Facts for the curious
The most spectacular part of the construction was lifting of roof elements. The north beam: 1 400 tones and 175 m long and the south beam: 1 300 tons and 160 meters long were lifted to the height of 30 m. Two smaller transverse girders, weighing 440 tons and 135 m long were mounted by hydraulic cylinders and steel ropes at the climb rate of 4 m/h. Three cranes moved the east and west trusses over the stands at the height of 32 meters. Nothing like that has ever been done in Europe. We did it first and we are proud of it!
Video showing the construction of the City Stadium in Poznań
