Stadium Name: Decathlon Arena (Stade Pierre Mauroy)
Location: 261 Bd de Tournai, 59650 Villeneuve-d’Ascq, Lille, France
Continent: Europe
Nation: France
City: Lille
Inauguration Date: August 17, 2012
Capacity: 50,187
Home Team: LOSC Lille
Pitch Dimensions: 105×68 meters
Surface: AirFibr hybrid grass
Architects: Pierre Ferret, Denis Valode & Jean Pistre
Cost: €324 million
Owner: Eiffage Lille Stadium Arena
Operator: GIE Grand Stade
In EA SPORTS FC™ 25, Decathlon Arena, also known as Stade Pierre Mauroy, stands as one of the premier stadiums in Ligue 1 MCDONALD’S. This cutting-edge venue in Lille, France, is not just a football stadium but a multipurpose arena that showcases the best of modern architecture and design. With its impressive capacity and state-of-the-art features, Decathlon Arena provides an unparalleled matchday experience, making it a must-visit location for players in FC 25.
A Modern Masterpiece:
Designed by the renowned architectural firms Valode&Pistre and Atelier Farret, Decathlon Arena is a testament to modern stadium design. The stadium features a sleek, LED-lit exterior that illuminates the Lille skyline, making it a landmark in the city. The design includes a unique semi-retractable roof, which allows for natural light to flood the pitch while providing protection from the elements when needed. Inside, the seating is divided into three tiers, with the middle tier offering premium seating for corporate supporters.
A Versatile Venue:
Decathlon Arena is not only a football stadium but also a versatile venue capable of hosting a wide range of events. The stadium’s design allows for quick reconfiguration to accommodate concerts, other sports events, and large-scale gatherings. This versatility makes it one of the most important cultural and sporting venues in France, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond.
Innovative Playing Surface:
The pitch at Decathlon Arena features an AirFibr hybrid grass surface, which combines natural grass with synthetic fibers to create a durable and high-performance playing surface. This technology ensures that the pitch remains in top condition throughout the season, providing an optimal playing environment for LOSC Lille and their opponents.
A Project of Ambition:
The construction of Decathlon Arena was part of a significant public-private partnership between LOSC Lille and the construction giant Eiffage. This ambitious project was initiated in 2009, with the stadium opening its doors in 2012 after three years of intensive construction work. The total cost of the project was €324 million, including €282 million for the stadium itself and an additional €42 million for parking and surrounding facilities.
Naming and Legacy:
Originally named Grand Stade Lille Métropole, the stadium was renamed in June 2013 in honor of Pierre Mauroy, a former French Prime Minister and mayor of Lille who was instrumental in the stadium’s development. The name change reflects the stadium’s importance to the city and its connection to a figure who played a key role in Lille’s history.
A Hub for Football and Beyond:
Decathlon Arena serves as the home ground for LOSC Lille, one of France’s most successful football clubs. The stadium has witnessed numerous memorable moments, including LOSC Lille’s title-winning campaigns and their thrilling 5-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in 2019, which set the stadium’s attendance record. Beyond football, the stadium regularly hosts concerts and other major events, making it a central hub for entertainment and culture in the region.
In EA SPORTS FC™ 25, Decathlon Arena is faithfully recreated, offering players an immersive experience that captures the grandeur and excitement of this iconic venue. The stadium’s modern design, atmospheric lighting, and vibrant crowd make it an unforgettable setting for matches in Ligue 1 MCDONALD’S and beyond.
Decathlon Arena is more than just a football stadium; it’s a symbol of modern sport and a landmark of cultural significance in Lille. Its inclusion in EA SPORTS FC™ 25 highlights the game’s dedication to providing players with the most authentic and immersive football experience possible.
For fans of Ligue 1 MCDONALD’S and those who appreciate cutting-edge stadium design, playing at Decathlon Arena in FC 25 offers a unique and thrilling experience. Whether you’re competing for league titles, hosting international fixtures, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of a top-tier stadium, Decathlon Arena provides the perfect stage for all your footballing adventures.