Biggest football stadiums in India: Know the largest stadiums in the country

Football has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, especially since the start of the Indian Super League in 2014. India has always had a rich footballing culture, mostly in places like Goa, Kerala, the northeastern states, and Kolkata - the Mecca of Indian football. 

However, these days even remote parts of the country are starting to embrace the footballing revolution in the country that’s being backed by infrastructural and professional advancement. 

Since no country can possibly see footballing development without proper grassroots facilities and top-class stadiums for players, it comes as no surprise that India has some of the best footballing stadiums in the country. With that in mind, here’s a closer look at the biggest football stadiums in India.

Biggest football stadiums in India

Salt Lake Stadium - 85,000 spectators

The most iconic stadium in India, the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata is the biggest in the country with a capacity to host around 85,000 spectators. Home to both Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, prior to its redevelopment this venue had seen more than one lakh spectators in the stadium during Kolkata derbies. Established in 1984, the stadium was renovated prior to the 2017 FIFA U17 World Cup, bringing down its capacity from 1,20,000 spectators to 85,000 spectators following the installation of bucket seats which replaced concrete benches. The spiritual home of Indian football, this stadium has witnessed some unforgettable matches with electric atmospheres over the years and is a venue where all Indians want to compete at least once.

Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium - 61,000 spectators

The Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi, Kerala is another ground football stadium that is home to passionate fans. The Kerala fans regularly turn out in large numbers and sell out the stadium in support of their team. Home to Indian Super League club Kerala Blasters, this stadium also hosts occasional concerts by international artists. It was among the six venues for the 2017 FIFA U17 World Cup and has also hosted some cricket games. Established in 1996 and renovated in 2000, this venue was also home to the I-League team Chirag United Club Kerala and the Kerala State team.      

Jawaharlal Nehru Commonwealth Stadium - 60,254 spectators

Third on the list of biggest stadiums in India, the Jawaharlal Nehru Commonwealth Stadium in Delhi was opened in 1983 but was renovated in 2010 ahead of the Commonwealth Games. It used to be the home stadium for the Delhi Dynamos football team during their stint in the ISL and was the main stadium for the 2010 Commonwealth Games. It hosted some matches during the 2017 U17 FIFA World Cup and also hosted an exhibition match between the India national football team and Bayern Munich as the farewell game for Indian football legend Bhaichung Bhutia.

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