Allianz Riviera

Nestled in the Var valley of Nice, the Allianz Riviera serves as a modern architectural landmark and the centerpiece of the Eco-Vallée, a project of national interest. Replacing the historic Stade du Ray, which had hosted OGC Nice since 1927, the new stadium was designed by architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte. Construction began in 2011, and the venue officially opened its gates on September 22, 2013, with a Ligue 1 match between OGC Nice and Valenciennes. The stadium was developed through a public-private partnership, reflecting a commitment to sustainable urban planning and modern functionality. The stadium is defined by its striking, interwoven timber-and-steel exoskeleton, which provides a sophisticated aesthetic while integrating natural ventilation to cool the pitch and spectator areas. Beyond its primary role as the home of OGC Nice, the venue is a multi-purpose facility capable of hosting rugby matches, concerts, and major international tournaments. It gained significant global exposure as a host venue for UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2023 Rugby World Cup, further cementing its status as a premier destination on the French Riviera. Since 2014, the stadium has also housed the Musée National du Sport, which relocated from Paris to Nice. This integration of culture and sport, combined with its status as a positive-energy venue, highlights the stadium's role as a vibrant community hub. Today, the Allianz Riviera remains a vital component of the city's sporting infrastructure, balancing the passion of professional football with a forward-thinking approach to environmental and architectural design.