There is arguably no finer setting for any other World Cup venue than the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. As its name many suggest, the stadium has a waterside location, overlooking the North End Lake at the heart of Port Elizabeth.
The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is the first football-specific arena to be built in the Eastern Cape Province. With five-tiers and wave-like roofing, it is one of the most unique stadiums ever to be constructed. A delay in building the R1.1b ground meant that it missed out on the opportunity of hosting matches in the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2009. It will definitely be ready for the 2010 World Cup however, meaning it is one of three coastal venues on the tournament roster - the others being in Cape Town and Durban.
The stadium has a capacity of 50,000, with 150 VIP suites, 60 business suites and lecture and function rooms. It also has its very own gymnasium and 500 parking spaces.
nelsonmandelabay.gov.za - 21/3/2009The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium will host both group stage and second round matches and as with all World Cup stadia, it has been designed to be profitable and sustainable to the local community after the tournament has finished. Rugby matches and music concerts have been held since the World Cup.
In addition to hosting group games, the stadium will also witness a second-phase game, quarter-final and also has the honour of staging the third/fourth play-off on 10 July, 2010.
The ground is close to the N2 Highway, a short bus or cab journey from the city's main hotel sector. The stadium is within walking distance of the coast, offering a very special area to prepare for the big game or relax after it.
Port Elizabeth's airport is nicknamed the "Ten Minute Airport" due to its close proximity to most major areas of the city. Indeed the central business district and hotel sector are just two miles from Port Elizabeth Airport. Ground transportation is provided by local taxis.
nelsonmandelabay.gov.za - 21/3/2009See an access map to the stadium
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