Football, or soccer, has developed significantly in North America. The stadiums are not merely grounds where matches take place but have also evolved to become landmarks in culture and history. The legendary stadiums which hosted World Cup finals, and futuristic new structures with the most impressive architectural works, are such buildings that make significant contributions in propelling the popularity of the game.
In the series of articles about most iconic global stadiums, we already highlighted most impressive stadiums in UK, in Europe and South America.
But now we turn to North America. Here are seven of the most legendary football stadiums from that part of the world.
1. Estadio Azteca (Mexico City, Mexico)
Estadio Azteca was inaugurated in 1966 and is the home of the Mexican National Team and Liga MX team club, Club América. One of football’s most storied stadiums in the world, it has a seating capacity of 87,523. Estadio Azteca is North America’s most famous football stadium. It is unique, having been the venue of two FIFA World Cup finals (1970 and 1986). This is where Diego Maradona scored the “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” against England.
Estadio Azteca’s ear-shattering support makes it a fortress for the Mexican national team. Many Copa Libertadores matches, CONCACAF titles and international friendly matches have been hosted at the stadium. With ongoing upgrades, Estadio Azteca remains the center of North American football. It is among the venues hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
2. Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, USA)
Home Turf of MLS side Atlanta United FC, this is a fairly new stadium opened in 2017. One of the technologically most sophisticated stadiums in the world, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a gem of contemporary football. Its camera shutter-inspired retractable roof is an engineering marvel. The 360-degree halo video board in the stadium is the largest in the world.
Though its initial seating capacity is 42,500, it can be expanded up to accommodate 71,000 spectators. In front of record MLS attendance, Atlanta United has made this stadium a fortress. The club’s victory in the 2018 MLS Cup before a crowd of 73,019 remains a record-breaking event. The stadium hosts international friendlies on a routine basis and is an ideal destination for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Its budget, fan-friendly rates and world-class amenities make it among the best in the U.S. to experience football.
3. Bank of America Stadium
Based in Charlotte, USA, the stadium is home to MLS team Charlotte FC. With a massive seating capacity for 74,867 individuals, the Bank of America Stadium opened in 1996. Initially constructed for American football, the stadium was later redeveloped into a top-class football stadium following the entry of Charlotte FC in MLS.
The recent upgrades to the stadium featured expanded seating, a new video board, and new lighting, enhancing the match-day atmosphere. It has already played host to international friendlies and CONCACAF tournaments, which further established Charlotte as a soccer city. Supporters of Charlotte FC provide a buzz, with organized chants and tifos that make match days unforgettable. The central location of the stadium serves as a main landmark to the city’s football culture and economic growth.
4. BMO Field
The home of MLS club Toronto FC and the Canadian National Team, BMO Field opened in 2007. Situated in Toronto with a capacity of 30,000, BMO Field has been at the center of Canadian soccer development. It was the venue for Toronto FC’s record-breaking 2017 MLS Cup win, which marked a breakthrough for Canadian club football.
Throughout the years, it has been a venue for important international events such as the CONCACAF Gold Cup and games of the Canadian national team. The stadium expanded several times, enhancing facilities without losing its intimate feel. Toronto FC supporters, the “Red Patch Boys,” provide an electric atmosphere with incessant chanting and flag waving. While preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, BMO Field will be among the key players in demonstrating Canadian enthusiasm for soccer.
5. Gillette Stadium
Foxborough, USA-based Gillette stadium was opened in 2002 with a capacity of 65,878 individuals. It serves as the home ground for MLS club New England Revolution and U.S. National Team. This stadium is most famous for hosting American football, but it has been an integral part of the soccer scene in the U.S. It has hosted multiple CONCACAF Gold Cup matches, FIFA World Cup qualifiers and international friendlies.
This pitch of the stadium has witnessed some of the most iconic moments of MLS. Even though it hosts artificial turf, the stadium continues to be a fortress for the national team. Its supporters are famous for their “Fortress Foxborough” chant, creating an electric atmosphere during high-pressure matches. Its popularity in soccer continues to be on the upswing, as it will be one of the host stadiums for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
6. Lumen Field
It was also opened in 2002, Lumen Field is based in Seattle, USA and is the home of the MLS team Seattle Sounders FC. The stadium is able to seat 37,722 and is expandable to fit in 69,000 people. The stadium has played host to CONCACAF Champions League finals, Copa América games, and crucial U.S. national team matches. Its artificial grass is FIFA-certified, allowing for quality play.
Lumen Field is home to one of the most energetic fan groups in MLS. Seattle Sounders fans, who refer to themselves as the “Emerald City Supporters,” create a crazy atmosphere. The Sounders’ dominance has made Lumen Field a fortress, with MLS Cup finals attracting record-breaking crowds. Since it is one of the primary 2026 World Cup venues, it will be a landmark symbol of North American soccer.
7. BC Place
Home of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Canada National Team, BC Place is a legendary stadium that was pivotal in Canadian soccer history. Despite being opened back in 1983, recent upgrades in 2011 increased its seating capacity to host 54,500 individuals. It hosted the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup final where the U.S. won the cup.
BC Place features a retractable roof, LED lighting, and a world-class playing field. The stadium’s “Southsiders supporters’ group” is known for their lively support, adding to the exciting experience. From MLS games to international competitions, BC Place hosts them all, solidifying its position in the sport as a top venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ensuring its legacy.
Conclusion
North America’s stadiums for football are not merely buildings—they are the heartbeat of the sport’s growth in the region. From the classic battles of Estadio Azteca to the modern innovations of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, each one of these grounds has left its indelible mark on the game. As North America prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, these stadiums will continue to be shining examples of footballing excellence, drawing fans from across the world and solidifying the continent’s place in world football.