France €600m stadium plans revealed

French rugby chiefs have unveiled plans for a new purpose-built stadium to replace the Stade de France.

The French Rugby Federation (FFR) today outlined their vision for the 82,000-seater facility due to be built in Evry – 25km south of Paris – and expected to be ready to open in 2017.

The stadium will feature a retractable roof and removable pitch, with the FFR anticipating it will be able to stage at least 20 events a year, including concerts.

The project, which is expected to cost around €600m, will also feature hotels and shops over 133 hectares – currently the site of a disused racecourse.

“It conforms to what we want,” said FFR president Pierre Camou. “One of the most modern stadiums in the world: pitch, roof, multi-functional, with exceptional comfort levels for spectators.”

The Evry bid succeeded ahead of that of Thiais-Orly, situated close to Paris’ Orly Airport.