Football, cricket, baseball, and sports in general, interests different people for various reasons. The players and clubs are in for the love of the game and glory. Fans are there for supporting their favourite teams. Punters and bookmakers are well aware of the money-making possibilities associated with sports and often enjoy significant wins along with the champion teams.
However, there is a lot more to sports than the actual playing of matches. The stadiums are an integral part of the concept. They bring about a chance for people to not only watch games live but also appreciate gigantic architectural marvels that never fail to impress.
There are several amazing stadiums dotted around the world, each one bringing about something unique to the playing field. We look at four that stand out, either because of the technological advancements they use or the distinct location that makes them ideal places to watch a sporting competition.
Showa Denko Dome – Japan
Japanese people prefer to build stadiums that serve more than one purpose. Leaders in design and technology, the architectural styles of these mega buildings typically vary and consist of elements that are part of the country’s heritage. Very much like the Banpaku Stadium in Osaka, the Showa Denko Dome in Oita is a multi-purpose arena. Initially built for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, it now holds various events. A notable feature of the stadium is its retractable roof, only one in Japan. As a result, the stadium is popularly known as the “Big Eye.”
Allianz Arena – Germany
When it comes to football, Germany is as passionate about the game as countries like the UK, Spain, Brazil and Italy. Their international team is typically a top contender when it comes to the World Cup. However, if you want some local action and bet on your favourite team, remember that Germany also has one of the most active football leagues in the world, Bundesliga.
Sports betting is about thirty-percent luck and seventy-percent knowing the game, the players and the teams. It’s about having the knowledge of the various aspects of the game that will allow you to more accurately predict which way the winds are blowing and which teams are likely to soar as the tournament continues as it is about knowing which ones look set to sink. This is every bit as true on a local level as it is on an international stage. Still knowing how the betting itself works can take some getting used to so you might want to use free bets from bookmakers as a great way to safely learn the ropes.
While many of you have the benefit of enjoying and betting on Bundesliga games from home, for those wanting to watch German clubs in action, the Allianz Arena in Munich is a state-of-the-art architectural masterpiece that uses LED bulbs to light up in different colours. It’s a complete sensory package that makes for a memorable game of football.
HPCA Stadium – India
While ease of location is a massive factor in the success of any stadium, so is its surroundings. When it comes to picturesque locals where snow-capped mountains form the perfect backdrop to a game of cricket, the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala, India takes the cake. Regarded amongst the most beautiful stadiums in the world, HPCA is at an altitude of 1457 m and remains closed for most of the winter due to harsh weather conditions. With a seating capacity of 23000, it is by far one of the best places to watch cricket.
The Ericsson Globe – Sweden
Not to be confused by Shakespeare’s Globe in London, the Ericsson Globe is a magnificent stadium in Stockholm, Sweden. Used primarily for ice-hockey, it has a seating capacity for over 13000. Built-in just two and a half years, visitors can take an elevator to the top of a sky-view point, perfect to enjoy panoramic views of Stockholm city.