This year marks the tenth anniversary of San Mamés Stadium, one of the most iconic venues in Spanish football, which has redefined design within the world of sports architecture. Inaugurated in 2013, the stadium has not only served as the home of Athletic Club Bilbao, but has also become a benchmark for innovation and sustainability in contemporary architecture.
WHO DESIGNED SAN MAMÉS?
The stadium was designed by the architectural firm César Azcárate & Associates in collaboration with IDOM. Their aim was to create a space that honoured the club’s rich tradition while embracing modern technologies and styles. With a capacity of over 53,000 spectators, San Mamés was conceived to bring fans closer to the action, improving visibility and comfort throughout the venue.
THE TEXTILE FACADE: INNOVATION WITH ETFE
The textile facade of San Mamés, made up of over 2,700 ETFE panels, exemplifies how architecture can unite aesthetics and functionality. By day, the panels allow natural light to flood the interior; by night, they transform into a luminous canvas lit by LED technology, creating a visual spectacle that ties the stadium to the city.
LIGHTNESS AND EFFICIENCY
Beyond its visual appeal, the facade provides practical advantages. Its lightweight structure reduces the building’s load, while its design helps mitigate the stadium’s environmental impact, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
AWARDS THAT RECOGNISE ITS EXCELLENCE
THE BEST STADIUM IN THE WORLD – 2015
In 2015, San Mamés was named the best stadium in the world by the World Architecture Festival—an award that highlights its role in setting a new standard for sports architecture. The honour acknowledges not only its design but also its influence as a model for future developments.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY FOR THE FAN EXPERIENCE
San Mamés incorporates cutting-edge technologies that enhance the experience of every visitor:
Lighting and sound systems: Designed to deliver premium quality for all types of events.
Universal Wi-Fi access: Enables fans to share their experience in real time.
Advanced security: Ensures a safe and controlled environment for every event.
SAN MAMÉS AS A CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC DRIVER
San Mamés has helped revitalise its surroundings, attracting tourism and business to the city. It has also become a hub for events beyond football, hosting concerts and cultural activities that have strengthened its status as a symbol of modernity in Bilbao.
INSPIRING A NEW GENERATION
A decade after its opening, San Mamés remains a global reference in sports architecture. Its design, sustainability and technology continue to set a standard, inspiring architects and urban planners to imagine spaces that connect with people and respect their environment.