FIFA World Cup in South Africa: HBM stadiums in the spotlight of the world

HBM contributed their know-how to two stadiums – both of them provide not only the perfect setting for the world cup fever, they even hosted the German national team.

A consortium of BAM International and Grinaker-LTA built the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth. It was not only the first of the five new sport complexes that was completed within schedule, but it had also a perfect accident record. On ca. 46.000 seats under its impressive roof made of 36 cantilever beams that are partly covered with aluminum plates and partly with a textile membrane, the spectators witnessed amongst others the match Germany against Serbia.

In addition, the HBM project in South Africa was host to the German team in their first round. The architectural landmark of the FIFA World Cup, the FNB Stadium or “Soccer City” in Johannesburg, was also brought up-to-date by HBM as an affiliated firm of BAM International. Its spectacular shell, which refers to the calabash, a traditional African drinking vessel, creates a distinctive landmark. And ca. 94.000 spectators in the cauldron turn it into a unique place for international soccer and African passion. That fact that Germany won against Ghana and – as their opponents – could successfully play the group matches will assure that Soccer City will be kept in good memory. Maybe even until the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final that will also take place here...

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth

FNB Stadium ("Soccer City), Johannesburg