Ben Youngs ranks the 10 best rugby stadiums for atmosphere - Page 2 of 2 - Ruck

Ben Youngs ranks the 10 best rugby stadiums for atmosphere

4. Ellis Park

Ellis Park Stadium, located in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a historic rugby venue with a capacity of 62,567. It is the home ground of the Lions and also hosts Springbok matches. Ellis Park is etched in rugby history as the site of the 1995 Rugby World Cup final, where South Africa famously triumphed. Its passionate crowds and storied past make it a key rugby landmark.

3. Stade de France

The Stade de France, located in Saint-Denis, a suburb of Paris, is the national stadium of France. With a capacity of 81,338, it hosts the French national rugby and soccer teams. Built for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, the stadium is an architectural marvel known for its distinctive elliptical roof. It regularly hosts major international rugby fixtures, including Six Nations matches and Rugby World Cup games.

2. Principality Stadium

Principality Stadium, formerly known as Millennium Stadium, is located in Cardiff, Wales. With a retractable roof and a capacity of 73,931, it is one of the most versatile and modern stadiums in the world. Home to the Welsh national rugby team, the stadium is renowned for its intense atmosphere, particularly during Six Nations matches. Its central location and state-of-the-art facilities make it a focal point for Welsh rugby.

General view of the pitch before the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

1. Twickenham

Twickenham Stadium, situated in London, England, is the iconic home of English rugby. As the largest dedicated rugby stadium in the world, it has a capacity of 82,000. Known simply as “Twickers” by fans, it hosts England’s home Six Nations matches, as well as other major rugby events like the Rugby World Cup. Its rich history, passionate crowds, and comprehensive facilities cement its status as the heart of English rugby.

General View of Qatar Airways Branding around Twickenham Stadium ahead of the Qatar Airways Cup match between South Africa and Wales at Twickenham Stadium in London on 22 June 2024. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK