FIFA GUIDE TO BUILD A FOOTBALL STADIUM SEATING AREA

Construction, Stadium

November 7, 2023

Indonesia was chosen to host the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup. The fields & stadium seats for the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium - Surabaya, Manahan Stadium - Surakarta & Si Jalak Harupat Stadium - Bandung will be real witnesses. This achievement is something to be proud of. The world has given confidence that Indonesia is the most appropriate venue to hold one of the biggest and most elite super sporting events in the world.

However, have you ever known how FIFA determines the standards for a stadium that is suitable for use from the stands? If you're curious, read the following article.

Chair Quality & Color Guidelines

Stadium owners should evaluate stadium seating options & configurations from the early stages of the design process. Because the type of seat will have a significant influence on the design of the stadium terrace. In the end, it will have an impact on the level of comfort & safety of the audience.

FIFA also recommends evaluating local climate conditions. Is the chair susceptible to extreme weather conditions such as heat, cold, sunlight and rainfall. Prolonged or excessive exposure to UV light can change the color of the seat. So in conditions of high UV levels. The UV stability of the materials used should be reviewed.

Apart from that, the chair must also be fireproof. FIFA wants to guarantee that all spectators are safe in the event of a potential fire. Don't let the chair become the main ignition when the fire starts.

Guide to Stadium Seat Types

Generally, the choice of chair types is divided into two main categories, namely static chairs and flip up chairs. Static chairs can offer a strength & low cost solution as they feature no moving parts. However, these chairs tend to require more regular cleaning. It can also reduce the level of gangway clearance.

This is different from flip up seats which tend to be more expensive but often provide more comfort for the audience. At the same time maximizing the space for spectators to move in the gangway.

Seat selection will likely vary across stadiums, with different users having different needs.

Accessibility Settings Guidelines

FIFA enforces four types of access. First, special access for wheelchair users. When designing stands, spectators with disabilities and/or limited mobility must be catered for in all areas. All accessible positions and seats must allow a companion to sit next to a spectator with a disability.

Second, Easy Access Chairs or chairs for disabled spectators who are not wheelchair users. These seats are arranged in the same way as general seats. But the position must be accessible via no more than three steps from the aisle access road. These seats are ideally aisle seats adjacent to the aisle. And the companion chair should be located next to it.

Third, chairs with easy access facilities. Accessible seating must be designated with a seat center of at least 500 mm and must be accessible via no more than three steps from the access aisle. The chairs here must be complete with armrests to help the audience stand and sit. Companion seats must be placed next to each easy access facility seat.

Fourth, Extra Wide Seats with Easy Access. This chair is specifically for adults with limited mobility who are obese or require a larger space. These chairs must be the equivalent width of two standard chairs and must be accessible via no more than three steps from the waiting area. The seating design must have a load carrying capacity of at least 250 kg.

Standing Spectator Area Guidelines

Standing spectator areas in stadiums are common in several parts of the world. This can be caused by cost factors, audience preferences & the perceived impact on the match atmosphere. Although FIFA does not specifically recommend incorporating standing areas into new stadium designs. FIFA recognizes that in some circumstances, the provision of standing accommodation reflects local cultural preferences.

When considering the introduction of standing areas in stadiums, local and regional codes and regulations, as well as tournament requirements must be taken into account. If stands are to be included in a stadium, these areas must be designed to ensure a safe environment for all spectators.

Line of Sight Guidelines

One important aspect in designing standing areas is to avoid or reduce sight line restrictions to nearby seating areas. So, when the spectators stand, the seated spectators do not lose sight of the field.

That's the explanation of FIFA's guide to building a safe & comfortable football stadium seating area. We hope that your football stadium construction or renovation project runs successfully and smoothly. Don't hesitate to contact Datra to help with your project.

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