Stade Laurent Pokou | San Pedro

Stade Laurent Pokou is a modern, state-of-the-art stadium located in San Pedro, Côte d'Ivoire, that plays a key role in the country’s sports infrastructure, particularly for football (soccer). Here's a detailed look at the stadium:

1. Construction and Design

Groundbreaking and Opening: The stadium's construction began in September 2018, and it officially opened its doors in September 2023. The stadium was part of preparations for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which was hosted by Côte d'Ivoire in early 2024. The opening match on September 9, 2023, featured a 2023 AFCON qualifier between Côte d'Ivoire and Lesotho, which Côte d'Ivoire won 1-0.

Architectural Features:

The stadium's seating capacity is 20,000 spectators, designed to host both national and international football matches.

The field itself features a natural grass pitch measuring 105 meters by 68 meters, which is the standard size for international matches.

The stadium boasts 10 public access points and 4 elevators to improve accessibility for spectators.

It is equipped with media rooms for journalists, player changing areas, and other facilities designed to ensure a professional sports environment.

Supporting Infrastructure: The surrounding area spans 23 hectares, and the stadium complex also includes a training center and 32 villas, providing accommodations for players and officials.

2. Inaugural Events and AFCON 2023

The first official match was held on September 9, 2023, when Ibrahim Sangaré of Côte d'Ivoire scored the opening goal against Lesotho in a 1-0 victory. This match was significant as it was part of the 2023 AFCON qualifiers, marking the stadium's readiness for major international competitions.

AFCON 2023: The stadium played an important role in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. It hosted several matches during the tournament, contributing to the success of the event and showcasing Côte d'Ivoire’s growing reputation in sports.

3. Legacy and Future Use

Named After Laurent Pokou: The stadium is named after Laurent Pokou, one of Côte d'Ivoire’s most celebrated football legends. Pokou, known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the Ivorian national team, was honored with this naming as a tribute to his achievements in football.

Post-AFCON Plans: After the AFCON, the Stade Laurent Pokou is expected to continue hosting both national and international sporting events, including football matches, tournaments, and community sports initiatives. The stadium is positioned as a key facility for sports development in the region, offering opportunities for local teams and athletes to train and compete at a higher level. Additionally, it is expected to boost tourism in the area and provide a place for the community to gather and enjoy sports and cultural events.

4. Location and Accessibility

Location: The stadium is located in the northern suburbs of San Pedro, about 8 km from the city center. It is easily accessible by local transportation and sits along the main road leading east toward Abidjan, making it convenient for fans and visitors from different parts of the country.

Access and Facilities: The stadium is well-equipped with ample parking for visitors, which is especially important for large events. This accessibility makes the stadium an attractive venue for a variety of sports and entertainment events, with significant attention to spectator comfort and convenience.

5. Impact on the Region

The Stade Laurent Pokou represents a major step forward in the development of sports infrastructure in Côte d'Ivoire. It not only provides a world-class facility for international events but also acts as a hub for community engagement, sports development, and tourism in the region. The stadium’s influence is expected to be felt long after the AFCON 2023, as it supports ongoing efforts to improve local sports facilities, nurture young talent, and promote football and other sports across the country.

The Stade Laurent Pokou has rapidly become a key fixture in San Pedro and Côte d'Ivoire’s broader sports landscape, contributing significantly to the development of the sports culture in the region and positioning the country to host more major international events in the future.