Stade Pierre-Mauroy (Lille)

Stade Pierre-Mauroy, located in Villeneuve-d’Ascq near Lille, is a modern multi-purpose stadium and the home of the French football club Lille OSC. More than just a sports arena, it is a landmark that symbolizes the city’s passion for both sport and cutting-edge engineering. With its innovative retractable roof and unique architectural design, the stadium has become a premier destination in France for major sporting events, concerts, and indoor competitions.

History and Design

The stadium was officially opened in 2012 under its original name, Grand Stade Lille Métropole. It was designed by the architectural firm Valode & Pistre and is a triumph of modern technology and versatility. A key feature is its retractable roof, which can be closed in just 30 minutes to create a protected, all-weather venue.

Even more impressive is its ability to transform its configuration. The stadium’s most innovative feature is its “Boîte à Spectacles” (Show Box) mode, where half of the pitch can be raised to create a separate, covered indoor arena for basketball, tennis, or concerts, with a seating capacity of up to 30,000 spectators. The stadium was renamed in 2013 in honor of Pierre Mauroy, the former Prime Minister of France and Mayor of Lille.

Major Events Hosted

While its primary purpose is to host Lille OSC’s home matches, the Stade Pierre-Mauroy has quickly established a rich history of hosting major events, cementing its status as a regional hub for sports and entertainment.

UEFA Euro 2016: The stadium was a key venue, hosting six matches, including a quarter-final.
2014 Davis Cup Final: It was the host for the prestigious tennis final, setting a new attendance record.
2015 EuroBasket: The stadium hosted the final stages of the European basketball championship.
2023 Rugby World Cup: The venue was a host city for several key pool stage matches.
International Matches and Concerts: The stadium has hosted the French national football and rugby teams, as well as a range of major concerts by artists like Rihanna, Justin Timberlake, and Depeche Mode.

Key Information

Official Name: Decathlon Arena – Stade Pierre-Mauroy (for sponsorship reasons)
Location: Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France
Opened: 2012 (as Grand Stade Lille Métropole)
Capacity: 50,186 (football configuration)
Primary Tenant: Lille OSC (LOSC)
Address: 261 Boulevard de Tournai, 59650 Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France

Contents

Getting to the Stade Pierre-Mauroy

The stadium is located in the Lille Métropole area, approximately 7 km from the city center. It is conveniently located and easily accessible via public transport.

By Air: For visitors traveling from out of town, the nearest airport is Lille-Lesquin Airport (LIL). The most convenient options from the airport are a taxi or ride-sharing service, which will take around 15-20 minutes. A bus service also connects the airport to the city’s bus station, which is a short walk from the metro.
By Public Transport (Metro): The most reliable and recommended way to get to the stadium is by metro. Take Metro Line 1 (yellow line) and alight at either the “Cité Scientifique” or “4 Cantons” stops, both of which are a short walk from the stadium.
By Taxi: Taxis are a quick and convenient option from the city center, with the journey typically taking around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
By Foot: The stadium is not within a practical walking distance from the Lille city center.
Parking: On-site parking is limited and can be heavily congested on match days. Public transport is highly recommended.

Tickets & Tours at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy

Lille OSC Tickets

Tickets for Lille OSC matches can be purchased through the club’s official website. It’s best to book in advance, especially for high-profile matches, as they can sell out quickly.

Stade Pierre-Mauroy Tours

The stadium also offers guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at its unique features and facilities. Tour information and booking can be found here.

Where to Stay Near the Stade Pierre-Mauroy

The best area to stay is in the Lille city center, as it offers the most options for attractions, restaurants, and bars. From there, you have easy access to the metro for getting to and from the stadium. Alternatively, staying in Villeneuve-d’Ascq offers closer proximity to the stadium, but with fewer nightlife and dining options.

Booking Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Book your accommodation and tickets well in advance, especially during major events, as demand can be very high.
- Check Transport: Ensure your hotel has convenient access to the metro, as it is the most efficient way to get to the stadium on event days.
- Use Reputable Sites: Use well-known and trustworthy booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare accommodation options.