THE Serbian National Stadium project marked a major construction milestone earlier this week as the first steel component was hoisted into place, officially launching the main steel structure phase of the project.

The steel project is being carried out by China Construction Steel Structure, a Shenzhen-based company.

Located on the outskirts of Belgrade, the stadium is a signature project under the China-Serbia Belt and Road cooperation. With a floor area of approximately 76,000 square meters, the venue will accommodate more than 52,000 spectators upon completion. It will be the only top-tier professional football stadium in Serbia that meets both FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship standards. The facility is expected to be ready by the end of 2026.

Designed as the world’s “first garden stadium,” the facility features a striking circular shape — a departure from traditional designs — and a unique green, natural facade, with trees and shrubs covering three floors of the venue.

The design incorporates four cable-suspended “rings” that include garden areas, adding natural beauty to the stadium’s exterior. This innovative approach aims to create a sustainable, eco-friendly structure that harmonizes with its surroundings.

Approximately 20,000 tons of concrete, reinforced with 2,379 piles totaling 55 kilometers in length, will be used in the stadium’s construction — underscoring the project’s massive scale.

The stadium’s completion will mark a significant milestone in Serbia’s sporting history, showcasing the country’s commitment to excellence in sports infrastructure.

Speaking at the stadium’s groundbreaking ceremony in 2024, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić said that Serbia would gain one of the most beautiful football stadiums in Europe and the world, providing its people with higher-quality sports facilities and services. He thanked China for its consistent and strong support for Serbia’s development and expressed his desire to work with Chinese partners to complete the grand project. (SD News)