Ivory Coast Plans Major Reconstruction of Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium Ahead of CAN Bids
Ivory Coast has announced ambitious plans to demolish and completely rebuild its iconic Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium as part of a broader strategy to modernize the country’s sporting infrastructure. The project, revealed by the country’s Minister of Sports Alain Lobognon, is projected to cost an estimated 300 billion CFA francs (approximately €457 million).
Currently serving as the home ground for all national football team fixtures, the stadium in central Abidjan will be transformed into a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the latest international standards. The reconstruction comes as the West African nation positions itself to host either the 2019 or 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Plans for the new stadium include a reduced seating capacity, scaling down from the current 45,000 to 35,000, in line with modern stadium designs that emphasize comfort, security, and optimal viewing. The revamped facility will also feature significant additions such as 5,000 underground parking spaces, a luxury hotel complex, and four high-rise towers surrounding the stadium — one of which is expected to soar 65 stories high, potentially reshaping Abidjan’s skyline.
The government’s move is part of a broader effort to elevate Ivory Coast’s sports infrastructure, with further renovation and modernization projects planned for other venues across the country. By doing so, authorities hope to bolster the nation’s chances of hosting major continental events and establish Ivory Coast as a central hub for African football.
Construction is expected to be completed within two years, signaling a new era for “Le Félicia”, a stadium that has long been synonymous with Ivorian football.
