Foster's design for Qatar 2022 World Cup bid

Foster + Partners has revealed its stadium design for Qatar’s 2022 World Cup bid.

The Lusail Iconic Stadium will provide a venue for 86,250 spectators and has been designed to be energy efficient and to perform in hot summer conditions.

Encircled by a reflective pool of water, spectators cross the moat to enter the building via six bridges. An outer pedestrian concourse extends from the water towards an array of smaller amenity buildings and a hotel at the stadium’s perimeter.

The saddle-form roof appears to float above the concrete seating bowl, supported by a ring of arching columns. Its central section can be retracted to allow the pitch to be either open to the sky or fully covered.

Located in the centre of a new development to the north of Doha, the stadium is intended to be a catalyst for further growth.

HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairman of the Qatar 2022 Bid, said:

“The Lusail Iconic Stadium will serve as the perfect venue for the opening and final matches of the World Cup. The stadium will inspire a new generation of regional and international sports venues, incorporating environmentally friendly cooling technologies to ensure the ideal conditions for players and spectators alike. “