NELSPRUIT - Mbombela Stadium (46,000) - 2010 FIFA WC

[Mo Rush]

Project Name New Mbombela Stadium
Project Category Stadium Infrastructure
Spatial location of Project Halls Gateway, 4 km east of Nelspruit
Project Timing Start Date: Feb 2007 End Date: May 2009 Duration: 28 months
Project Description Construction of the new 46000 seat FIFA compliant stadium on a Greenfield site
Project Value R 875 million Project value (excl. VAT), R710.6 million Construction value (excl. VAT)

http://www.geocities.com/jairus_george/mbombela.JPG
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/2/2d/Mbombela-cut-away.jpg

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/mbombela-1.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/mbombela3.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/mbombela2.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/mbombela4.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/mbombela5.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/mbombela6.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/mbombela7.jpg

[Mo Rush]

Location:
Nelspruit, Mpumalanga

Date Commenced:
February 2007

Anticipated completion date:
April 2009

http://www.lefika.co.za/images/Mbo_strip03.jpg
http://www.lefika.co.za/images/Mbo_strip02.jpg
http://www.lefika.co.za/images/Mbo_strip01.jpg

[Mo Rush]

http://www.lefika.co.za/images/M05.gif
http://www.lefika.co.za/images/M06.gif
http://www.mpumalangatopbusiness.co.za/2007/Images/3-The-11.jpg

[Nikom]

Wonderful Stadium, it's very nice :okay:

[Mo Rush]

no frills no fuss..just a good 46,000 seater football venue..close to the action!

[Mo Rush]

http://www.napsa.org.za/portal/dumpfile?filepath=/home/lcoetzee/data/lbutgereit1192527170682_Mbombela+wheelchair+positions.jpg

[Mo Rush]

http://www.mbombela.gov.za/2010/Gallary/2010_%2003%2008%202007%20007.jpg

[Mo Rush]

http://pro.corbis.com/images/42-19194690.jpg?size=67&uid={e4370a1c-5222-4da4-95fc-f4f3e5db1ee8}

[Gherkin]

I've been to Nelspruit! The place seems tiny for a 46,000 seater stadium! What will the legacy of this stadium be? Will it be reduced in capacity or given to a local club as it is?

[Mo Rush]

I've been to Nelspruit! The place seems tiny for a 46,000 seater stadium! What will the legacy of this stadium be? Will it be reduced in capacity or given to a local club as it is?

reduced in capacity.

[gonzo]

I've been to Nelspruit!Me too! I would have never imagined it hosting a World Cup match!

Imagine Brazil vs. Argentina....in Nelspruit! :laugh:

[Mo Rush]

Me too! I would have never imagined it hosting a World Cup match!

Imagine Brazil vs. Argentina....in Nelspruit! :laugh:

Its appeal was its surrounding natural beauty and the kruger national park,exposing the world to all parts of south africa. they aren't changing the surrounds too much because its meant to have an "out there" african feel. Transport should be fine and accommodation options should be adequate within a 20-30 minute drive.

[GNU]

Nice1
The location looks great aswell.

[Joop20]

reduced in capacity.

Any info on this? Will there be a rugby or football tennant for the stadium after the world cup?

[Calvin W]

Nice stadium but nothing special or unique. Many of the stadiums being built for 2010 seem a bit ordinary. Nothing wrong with that just no show stoppers.

[Gherkin]

Its appeal was its surrounding natural beauty and the kruger national park,exposing the world to all parts of south africa.

Been there too! Imagine going on a morning Safari in Kruger then going to a World Cup match game in the evening... :cheers:

[Mo Rush]

I think the 2010 world cup stadia are great.
A balance between 6 new and four upgraded existing venues.

I think Soccer City is amazing, a 100,000 seat football stadium with no athletics track wrapped in thousands of colourful tiles.

Moses Mabhida stadium is iconic, although with an athletics track, its fabric roof is cable suspended in mid air from the 100m arch above, its two steps from the beach.

Cape Town's stadium is no frills no fuss. A 70,000 seat stadium designed for perfect sightlines, with the most majestic backdrop a world cup has probably ever seen. A hanging double membrane roof covers most spectators. It was designed to avoid all the problems with Allianz Arena.

Nelson Mandela Bay's stadium is quite beautiful too.

There is nothing you could do to Ellis Park, Loftus Versfeld, Free State Stadium, but they are world class venues who will continue to provide an amazing venue for football and rugby. The upgrades to FIFA requirements as well as new infrastructure is all that is needed.

I like the Nelspruit stadium, plain and simple and a elegant roof.

[skaP187]

Allthough I sometimes was critical, specialy about the runningtrack in Durban, I must say that stadiumwise the WC 2010 will easely beat Germany as the way things are looking.
Also Japan and Korea cannot match it mop.
I do not write this to piss off these countries, but to give a compliment to SA.

Like Mo said some great new stadiums and some beautifull classic venues which I realy like.
Also 8 out of 10 stadiums will be real footballstadiums. Where it equals Germany.

I realy like what´s going on down there!

[Jim856796]

what will the stadium's capacity be reduced to after the World Cup?

[LMCA1990]

Awesome stadium. I like it's surroundings :D

[Mo Rush]

WSP gets spectators to 2010 stadium
07 November 2007

WSP Civil & Structural Engineers is playing a crucial role in ensuring that 2010 soccer enthusiasts reach Nelspruit’s Mbombela Stadium.
WSP gets spectators to 2010 stadium

The engineering firm has been appointed by the Mbombela Local Municipality for several projects in and around the stadium precinct. These include the road access from the N4, a perimeter road to the precinct providing access to parking areas and facilities, a bus and taxi rank and a pedestrian boulevard.

WSP Civil & Structural Engineers’ Patrick Riley says, “The success of the 2010 World Cup will depend to a large extent on transport access to and from the various stadia. It is anticipated that some 24 000 spectators will utilize public transport and/or a shuttle service to Mbombela Stadium, so the surrounding road infrastructure needs to be extensively upgraded to accommodate the expected numbers.”

Construction on the R82m project is scheduled to begin in May 2008, with completion scheduled for July 2009.

[Mo Rush]

Primed To Host The 1st And 2nd Round Matches Of The 2010 World Cup, The Entire Nation Anxiously Aticipates Completion Of The Extraordinary Mbombela Stadium In 2009



Imagine an immaculate world-class stadium set in a semi-urban environment that at the same time embraces traditional African aspirations. It should not be mistaken for a place that only exudes the manifestations of Africa’s rich tradition, but one that also embraces the virtuosity of the continent’s distinctive wildlife, while concurrently exhibiting global standards of architecture.



Mbombela Stadium is located five kilometres southwest of Nelspruit within close proximity to the N4 (national highway connecting Gauteng and Mozambique). Located at the mouth of the Kruger Park game reserve, it is perfectly positioned to offer Africa’s distinct wildlife as an additional benefit to those attending the 2010 FIFA World Cup matches.



Contruction of Mbombela Stadium has been made possible through the support of the national government, the Mpumalanga Provincial Government and the Mbombela Local Municipality. The construction team leaders, South African-based Basil Read in collaboration with French-based Bouygues TP, are jointly responsible for transforming the designs into reality.


‘Wild’ Design

Of the five new stadiums currently under construction in South Africa for the 2010 World Cup, the R720 million (approximately USD $104 million) Mbombela is the only one that has been designed by local South African architects. R&L Architects are the design Architects for the project and are assisted by Artech from Nelspruit. In addition, HOK Sport in London and Björn Füchtenkord from Germany were consulted on the design.



The designers decided to break away from the modern city setting and instead chose to integrate an appreciation of nature in designing the stadium. This is articulated through the aesthetic and functional use of 18 structural giraffe pylons supporting the roof of the 22,400 sq metre stadium. This design aspect along with use of African-themed signage boasting local colour patterns and graphics, all set in a mix of virginal bush field and citrus farmland, makes this development most likely to be characterised as the world’s ‘wildest’ stadium.


Three Tiers And A Basement

The 45,000-seat state-of-the-art structure will be divided into three tiers and will feature various amenities such as VIP facilities, presentation studios, concessions and medical facilities to name a few. The lower tier is excavated into the ground to allow the 21,000 spectators on this level to navigate from the main arrival podium without having to perform any shift in levels. The ground level hosts the stadium management offices and stadium shop.



The mid-level boasts a wide row width of 900mm, as well as higher spec seats and lift access provided for its 4,000 users. The presidential suite is located on the west side of the midlevel and is connected directly by a lift to the president’s entrance and parking in the basement.



The 20,000 spectators on the upper tier will use one of the eight 5 metre wide ramps located at the corners. Additionally, toilets, sales kiosks and first-aid rooms are evenly located throughout these areas and there are 1,000 toilets and urinals as well as 160 wheelchair spaces for disabled spectators.



At the top of the stadium, there is a 6 metre opening between the upper lip of the seating bowl, and the roof ventilates the seating bowl during hot days creating the feeling of openness. Through this gap, the sky and surrounding hills with their rounded granite outcrops remain visible from the seats. This gives the roof a floating ambiance quite akin to a tree canopy.



Further down at the basement level is the players’ area together with auxiliary medical, doping control and rooms for officials. In addition, there are dedicated warm-up areas for each team, a media zone with an accompanying 200-seat press conference room and a press workroom. A special mixed-zone is provided where the players and journalists will interact after matches. Also to be found in the basement is the main kitchen, maintenance person’s area and service area.



Climate was a key factor in the design of the non-wall concourses of the stadium in order to give spectators a sense of direction, and allow them to enjoy outside views in addition to the stadium activities.


Beyond 2010

The stadium plan envisages utility beyond hosting the 2010 World Cup. Accordingly, the structure has been designed to be suitable for other events after the soccer extravaganza has ended, such as product launches, conferences, exhibitions and banquets.


Stadium Benefits

As a result of this development, a plethora of positive outcomes ranging from increased international exposure, to job creation and an upsurge in tourism are expected.



According to Mpumalanga Premier, Thabang Makwetla, “The arrival of Mbombela Stadium will create major job opportunities for the people of Mbombela and other areas of our province. The hosting of major sports and entertainment events here will contribute to major economic impact on the provincial tourism statistics. This venue will create the platform for people from all over South Africa and other parts of the world. Our visitors will be able to go home with fond memories of their stay, with hospitality offered by the wonderful people of Mpumalanga.”



Executive Mayor of Mbombela Local Municipality, Councillor Justice Nsibande adds that, “The Mbombela Stadium will be a world-class treasure for the people of our area and I would like to thank the national government and the Mpumalanga Provincial Government for making a dream come true for our people.”

http://168.144.146.174/_imagedata/issues/843949669599/mbobela%20stadium%20(4).jpg

[PopolVuh!]

it's a nice design...

[Merle]

Hey!!! I live here. What an awesome place. Look forward to meeting you all. Lotsa wildlife and great game drives.

Muchos Hugs

Merle:banana:

[Merle]

Oops, double post

[Mo Rush]

Welcome.

I hope this means you will be updating us on construction with some photos.

[Merle]

Hiya Mo,

Sure will. fact is i will get out there this week, and get an insight. Look forward to it.

M:okay:

[Merle]

To all with the positive input here. Thanks. I proud to be in this town. Will get as much info as i can, realistic of course, and post.

Have taken all the questions down. Hmmmm gonna do some private investigating. LOL

Hugs

M

[lpioe]

Looks good.
The location looks a bit remote though. Will there be public transportation to the stadium (except buses)?

[Mo Rush]

Looks good.
The location looks a bit remote though. Will there be public transportation to the stadium (except buses)?

lions and tigers will transport some spectators.

[Merle]

rofl mo, not to mention some heavyback elephant 120 horse power. If you mean like like though no. there are taxis abundant, and i think the Halls Helipad will obsiously be made available. But i stand under correction at this point. Will be going today or tomorrow to do the report. Keep your eyes peeled.

M
p.s. Cheers for the New Year:cheers:

[Mo Rush]

http://www.fuechtenkord-architekten.de/bilder/62_Bild_0001.jpg

[Red85]

Nice stadium but nothing special or unique. Many of the stadiums being built for 2010 seem a bit ordinary. Nothing wrong with that just no show stoppers.

I think different about that one. I think the biggest 3 are no ordinary 13 in a dozen. there no Birdsnests, I agree but totaly ordinary nope, very beautifull.

[GunnerJacket]

Just wanted to chime in a voice my pleasure at the overall package of facilities coming together for this event. An earlier post suggested this stadium (and/or others) was nothing special, but I think they will all be more than functional and will be quite special considering the resources originally available for the country. As a whole these facilities will stand on par with those of prior events and I for one didn't see that coming. Cheers to South Africa and may it be great fun for all! :)

[skaP187]

How is this one going, anyone construction pics?

[Axelferis]

very good :cheers:

[Mo Rush]

only pics in newspaper..work seems slow..

[Mo Rush]

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/1jan2008-1.jpg

[SkyLerm]

^Very cool :okay:

[Mo Rush]

http://www.fifa.com/mm/photo/tournament/destination/mbombela6_39028.jpg
http://www.fifa.com/mm/photo/tournament/destination/mbombela7_39027.jpg
http://www.fifa.com/mm/photo/tournament/destination/mbombela5_39025.jpg
http://www.fifa.com/mm/photo/tournament/destination/mbombela3_39023.jpg

[TEBC]

updates?

[Mo Rush]

please visit the South African forums for updates rather than opening up each thread. its not always possible updating everywhere. feel free to copy updates from the South African section into these forums.

[TEBC]

please visit the South African forums for updates rather than opening up each thread. its not always possible updating everywhere. feel free to copy updates from the South African section into these forums.

so why there are all these threads?

[Durbsboi]

Go to the SOUTH AFRICAN FORUMS, then click on the projects section & have fun

[shacky]

update

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/2008-10-15053.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/2008-10-15054.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/2008-10-15057.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/2008-10-15060.jpg

[Mo Rush]

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/PC080286.jpg

[Mo Rush]

The Mbombela Stadium is a new 46,000 seat stadium to be built as one of ten venues for the FIFA World Cup 2010. It will be located on open land six kilometers west of Nelspruit with the stadium as the centrepiece of a proposed sports precinct with athletics and cricket as well as other sporting codes. Construction is scheduled to commence in October 2006 with a completion date towards the end of 2009. It is proposed that all seats will be covered by a cantilever roof. The roof supports have been designed to resemble a giraffe as the stadium is close proximity to the Kruger National Park.

[Mo Rush]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC_2600.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC_2601.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC_2602.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC_2603.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC_2604.jpg

Courtesy of tadpolefarm

[Mo Rush]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC071.jpg

The crane collapse gap has been closed
http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC072.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC073.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC074.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC075.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC076.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC077.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC078.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC079.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC081.jpg

The video screen frame on site
http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/videoscreen.jpg

Courtesy of tadpolefarm

[marrio415]

When are they holding a test event

[mikey67]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSCN0432.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSCN0342.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSCN0362.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSCN0446.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/aerials2009-05-15066.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/aerials2009-05-15127.jpg

Courtesy of tadpolefarm

[mikey67]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC09067.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC09122.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC09138.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC09141.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC09162.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC09182.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC09185.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Pic0009.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Pic0025.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Pic0036.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Pic0071.jpg

Courtesy of tadpolefarm

[Ozric]

Awesome seats. I love it!

[GNU]

Great venue, but I dont like the fact theyve painted the walls and columns between the tiers.

[Mr.Underground]

Interesting stadium.

[NMAISTER007]

The construction is looking good, very good :D

[renco]

Great pics :okay:

[mikey67]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3424/3729275790_b6be55a3c2_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2656/3729276536_1547bef22d_b.jpg
From SA Forum by Mo Rush

[mikey67]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/IMG_1513.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/IMG_1518.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/IMG_1522.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/IMG_1525.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/IMG_1549.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/IMG_1559.jpg
From SA Forum by tadpolefarm

[trmather]

It really is in the middle of nowhere isn't it?

Hopefully they'll have a hell of a lot of stuff for the fans to be entertained by around the ground.

[IcyUrmel]

Beautiful, interesting stadium. And compared to other ones (http://www.rlarchitects.co.za/Projects_Sport/2010_Page1.html) extremely close to the pitch.


Nelspruit vs Wembley:
http://www.rlarchitects.co.za/images/Sport_2010_MB_WM.jpg

[mikey67]

It really is in the middle of nowhere isn't it?

Hopefully they'll have a hell of a lot of stuff for the fans to be entertained by around the ground.

"Surrounded by some of the country's most spectacular game reserves and the famous Kruger National Park, Nelspruit offers more than just a world-class football stadium. Nelspruit is the capital of Mpumalanga Province. In siSwati,(one of the official languages), Mpumalanga means a 'place where the sun rises'. With the unending view of rolling mountains from God's Window to the majestic scenes of the green hills contrasting with blue rivers at Blyde River Canyon, this is definitely a place the sun would not want to leave.

Nelspruit, located in the local municipality of Mbombela. The whole area invokes the idea of a 'Garden of Eden', with a flourishing fruit industry and countless waterfalls which drop from dramatic cliff faces. Wild horses roam freely in Kaapsehoop.

A few kilometres north of the small town of Middelburg lies the museum village of Botshabelo. It preserves the culture of the Ndebele, who belong to the large group of Nguni people. The Ndebele presumably moved around the 15th and 16th centuries from Natal to live here in a quasi-peaceful co-existence with other Nguni groups. Nearby Pilgrims Rest is an old gold-mining town which has seems to have been forgotten by time. Also in the area is Komatipoort, which serves as a gateway to Mozambique.

Nelspruit is a good base for exploring the nearby Limpopo Trans-frontier Park, which incorporates the Kruger National Park (South Africa), Limpopo National Park (Mozambique) and Gonarezhou National Park (Zimbabwe)."

http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/destination/cities/city=57127/index.html

[Mo Rush]

Nelspruit's Mbombela Stadium makes its clear that meeting FIFA requirements and having an intimate venue is possible.

[salaverryo]

Nelspruit's Mbombela Stadium makes its clear that meeting FIFA requirements and having an intimate venue is possible.

You better believe it's "intimate". It's surrounded by wilderness. Spectators may very well pitch tents & camp out there. They could even bring their hunting rifles & bag a few zebras.

[kazetuner]

^^ lol
Nice Stadium, hadn't noticed it before (looks like I've been paying too much attention to Green Point and MM)

[Mo Rush]

You better believe it's "intimate". It's surrounded by wilderness. Spectators may very well pitch tents & camp out there. They could even bring their hunting rifles & bag a few zebras.

True :)
It only makes sense that some of our venues feel like they are in the middle of nowhere, surrounding by Game Parks and wilderness.

[trmather]

I checked out some info on Nelspruit itself, and it has a population of 200k+?

I really find that hard to believe, unless its like 100 to a house, or everywhere is covered by the trees and the wilderness.

That said, it'd be a heck of a unique place to go to and from a football match from.

[mikey67]

I checked out some info on Nelspruit itself, and it has a population of 200k+?

I really find that hard to believe, unless its like 100 to a house, or everywhere is covered by the trees and the wilderness.

That said, it'd be a heck of a unique place to go to and from a football match from.

A few photos of Nelspruit...

http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x31/Upington/878044408_872f914ec9_b.jpg


http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x31/Upington/877204915_1ea3cf720a_b.jpg


http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x31/Upington/877184355_9c33f93aa1_b.jpg

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/8888263.jpg[/QUOTE]

The images below are dated and much of the construction would have been completed by now:
http://www.riversidelifestyle.co.za/images/progress/progress5/progress1.jpg

http://www.riversidelifestyle.co.za/images/progress/progress5/progress2.jpg

http://www.riversidelifestyle.co.za/images/progress/progress5/progress3.jpg

[passionate saffer]

nice

[Mo Rush]

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/StadiumPrecinct-1.png
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/MbombelaProgress18-1.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/MbombelaProgress17-1.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/MbombelaProgress15-1.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/MbombelaProgress16-2.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/MbombelaProgress14-1.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/MbombelaProgress12-2.jpg

[Mo Rush]

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0cow95G5nw1V5/900x.jpghttp://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/03C2cOu8nC3Hd/900x.jpghttp://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0fpD4rW1ho30g/900x.jpghttp://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/07aE2xA7RRfaT/900x.jpg

[yorubalife]

So Mo, when are they gonna start with the landscaping

[Mo Rush]

Who needs landscaping?

[t-bang!]

^^:lol:

[passionate saffer]

classic mo!

[Mo Rush]

I actually never thought about it but why not have spectators walking through the bushes, less concrete more trees.

I mean the path to Allianz arena wasn't exactly first world.

http://bp2.blogger.com/_28Bj3Qvxtn4/R4pYWMNC6nI/AAAAAAAACPw/7dCmeWGd-Go/s400/CIMG2275.JPG

[ZABoy]

I actually never thought about it but why not have spectators walking through the bushes, less concrete more trees.

I mean the path to Allianz arena wasn't exactly first world.

http://bp2.blogger.com/_28Bj3Qvxtn4/R4pYWMNC6nI/AAAAAAAACPw/7dCmeWGd-Go/s400/CIMG2275.JPG

And dont forget to put lions in there too, to make it more African. :lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

[Mo Rush]

And dont forget to put lions in there too, to make it more African. :lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

yes..a zoo on the way to the stadium. get there alive if you can...:)

[Reggae Boyz Ja]

updates

[Reggae Boyz Ja]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gij5ngFctZw&feature=player_embedded

[ReiAyanami]

This stadium looks so surreal in the middle of nowhere its mesmerizing, lol

[Reggae Boyz Ja]

Who da hell named this thread..It's called "Mbombela Stadium" not "Nelson Mbombela Stadium" plz fiz it...

[mikey67]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01003.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01005.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01009.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01011.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01paving008.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01010.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01paving002.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01paving007.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/2009-08-01paving010.jpg

by tadpolefarm

[ReiAyanami]

WTF! They make a zebra color ptern with the seats????

[Dames]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/DSC_5973a.jpg

Awesome pic from Tadpolefarm.

[fabriziocg79]

What´s that blue spot in the sky in the midle of the stadium? An UFO? :lol:

Great Shot!!!!

[Aka]

Yeah. District 9.

[tadpolefarm]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Mbombela_Stadium_aerial_Sept09.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Mbombela_Stadium_aerial_sept09_1.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Mbombela_stadium_turnstile.jpg

[dysan1]

the zebra pattern is super

[haggiesm]

that night shot is gorgeous!

[bing222]

Great photos

[ryebreadraz]

Because it's smaller than the others, most people ignore this stadium somewhat when discussing the WC venues, but I love it. A great place and I hope the US gets drawn into a match here so I can go to it.

[Mo Rush]

Its like an African version of Suncorp but more intimate.

[Wezza]

Because it's smaller than the others, most people ignore this stadium somewhat when discussing the WC venues, but I love it. A great place and I hope the US gets drawn into a match here so I can go to it.

Best venue of the lot IMO. But geez they're really gonna have to start pulling their finger out to get some of these stadia ready in time.

[Livno80101]

how many rows are there on first ring (bowl)?

[haggiesm]

Best venue of the lot IMO. But geez they're really gonna have to start pulling their finger out to get some of these stadia ready in time.

i'm guessing you're referring to the landscaping more than the stadium. looking at how quickly the landscaping is getting done at the other stads, i'm not too worried about it.

[Wezza]

i'm guessing you're referring to the landscaping more than the stadium. looking at how quickly the landscaping is getting done at the other stads, i'm not too worried about it.

Yeah that's what i was referring to. Looks like access roads etc still need to be done as well.

[tadpolefarm]

The seats have had their plastic bags removed revealing the full impact of the zebra pattern.
Africa's Wildest Stadium
http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Mbombela_stadium_arena_04.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Mbombela_stadium_arena_01.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Mbombela_stadium_players_entrance.jpg

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/Mbombela_stadium_north_entry.jpg

[passionate saffer]

IT LOOKS GOOD WITH OUT COVERS ON THE CHAIRS. HOWEVER IT IN THE MIDDLE OF NO WHERE.

[NMAISTER007]

The stadium looks great except for the pitch, cant wait till they change it :D

[aus16]

the seat design looks great

[haggiesm]

The stadium looks great except for the pitch, cant wait till they change it :D

just give it a chance to grow properly.

[Kampflamm]

Don't know how old these are...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2779/4079785569_3e29b1103c_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3174/4080544190_f460ed5655_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2734/4080545914_be2c7af46f_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2493/4080547704_f4664bcd3c_b.jpg

[Kwazimoto]

Wow! Very clean

[haggiesm]

i think this one will be a favourite for many next year. it's small, simple and yet very charming in a certain way.

[Stona]

Stadium looks great but... where is the city? o.O It's look strange.. great stadium in the middle of.. slums?

[A Darter]

Stadium looks great but... where is the city? o.O It's look strange.. great stadium in the middle of.. slums?

its a few km's outside the city...

[BobDaBuilder]

They managed to get the turf to grow? I heard there was some problems. I am concerned because I am going to see the Aussies play there. What's accomadation like around the town?

[Mo Rush]

http://i443.photobucket.com/albums/qq159/tadpolefarm/Mbombela%20Stadium/3a32dbe6.jpg

[A Darter]

They managed to get the turf to grow? I heard there was some problems. I am concerned because I am going to see the Aussies play there. What's accomadation like around the town?

You're going to watch a game, and you still havent sorted out accomadation....with only 3months remaining?? how much research have you done?

[BobDaBuilder]

^^^^^^^^^

Very little. I don't like planning ahead, you always get overcharged that way. Cheaper to do it on the fly when you are on the ground. If need be, I'll just camp or drive to another city nearby.

If it comes down to it, I'll just pick up a girl and stay with her.

[BobDaBuilder]

^^^^^^^^^

Very little. I don't like planning ahead, you always get overcharged that way. Cheaper to do it on the fly when you are on the ground. If need be, I'll just camp or drive to another city nearby.

If it comes down to it, I'll just pick up a girl and stay with her.

[annman]

^^ There should be enough accommodation. Nelspruit is the "capital" of Lowveld safari tourism and is the gateway to most of the game reserves.

Check out these sites:

www.portfoliocollection.co.za for guest houses and small private reserves
www.bidtostay.co.za for cheaper hotel rooms, based on an auction system
www.citylodge.co.za SA's business travel 3-4star hotel group
www.proteahotels.co.za SA's biggest hotel group
www.wheretostay.co.za independent accommodation site for SA

Hope that helps.

[BobDaBuilder]

Excellent. As long as the beer is cold.

[A Darter]

^^^^^^^^^

Very little. I don't like planning ahead, you always get overcharged that way. Cheaper to do it on the fly when you are on the ground. If need be, I'll just camp or drive to another city nearby.

If it comes down to it, I'll just pick up a girl and stay with her.

You'll be one of those tourists complaining to the BBC of how crap the service you received was, when you havent done your part and ATLEAST researched where you might be staying, how much it will cost, how far from the stadium...etc etc. mark my words....

[haggiesm]

There is a lot of accommodation in Nelspruit and the surrounding areas, but your options will be very limited. Because it is such a popular tourist spot, places there are usually booked to the max way in advance.

[BobDaBuilder]

If all else fails, I'll just camp or sleep at the train/bus station or go to an all night party.

[african biohazard]

^^ I agree mate, it will be easy to find a place to stay. Many many campsites and the weather is agreeable at that time of year!

I often camp at Nature's Gate as a stop-over on my way to Mozambique. You may need a tent and sleeping bags. Otherwise they have chalets which you'll need to pre-book. http://www.safarinow.com/go/NaturesGatePremierAccommodationResort/