The Principality Stadium Cardiff (formerly Millennium Stadium, Welsh: Stadiwm y Mileniwm) serves as Wales' national arena, home to the Wales rugby team and major football matches. Built for the 1999 Rugby World Cup at £121 million cost, this iconic venue hosts global events.
With 74,500 capacity and Europe's second retractable roof stadium, Principality Stadium ranks third in Six Nations Championship venues. It hosted the 2017 UEFA Champions League Final and multiple FA Cup finals during Wembley's redevelopment.
Millennium Stadium Cardiff Foundation
Until 1969, Cardiff RFC and Wales shared Cardiff Arms Park. The 1969-70 season saw separation, leading to the National Stadium opening in 1984 with 53,000 capacity. By 1995, for the 1999 Rugby World Cup, a new stadium became essential as competitors like Twickenham (75,000) and Murrayfield (67,000) expanded.
The Taylor Report reduced National Stadium capacity from 65,000 to 53,000, with all-seater conversion dropping it further to 47,500. Poor visibility from surrounding buildings and limited Westgate Street access necessitated complete redevelopment.
Millennium Stadium Cardiff Arena
Redevelopment rotated the stadium north-south orientation, adding a retractable roof for multi-use functionality. The site expansion included £6 million River Taff walkway and demolition of adjacent buildings. Amsterdam Arena and Gelredome inspired the sliding roof design.
Laing constructed the stadium in 1999, replacing National Stadium, Wales Empire pool, and BT exchange. First major event: Wales 29-19 South Africa on 26 June 1999 before 29,000 fans.
Millennium Stadium Cardiff Development
Designed by Bligh Lobb Sports Architecture (now Populous), WS Atkins engineered the retractable roof by Mike Otlet. Cimolai S.p.A. fabricated 72 steel roof trusses and 4,500 roof segments. Millennium Commission contributed £46 million of total £121 million cost.
Debenture sales provided interest-free loans for ticket guarantees. WRU faced significant debt post-construction despite private investment support.
Millennium Stadium Cardiff Highlights
Four stands include North Stand (2 levels), West Stand, South Stand (formerly Hyder Stand), and BT Stand (east) with three levels: lower (23,500), middle (18,000), upper (33,000). Record attendance: 78,000+ at 2017 Joshua vs Takam boxing match.
Desso hybrid grass pitch replaced modular GreenTech ITM system in 2014 for improved durability. Stadium hosted Tsunami Relief concert, Wales Rally GB Super Special Stage, and Speedway Grand Prix.
Principality Stadium Cardiff - Wales National Arena
