Located in the lively city of Southampton, Hampshire, St Mary’s Stadium has proudly served as the home of Southampton FC since 2001. With a capacity of 32,384, it is recognized as the largest football stadium in South East England. Situated on the site of a former gasworks, the stadium signifies the club’s return to its roots at St Mary’s Church, the birthplace of the club.

The modern stadium succeeded the cherished but capacity-restricted Dell, enabling the Saints to cater to an expanding supporter base and adhere to contemporary football standards. Groundbreaking commenced in December 1999 and reached completion in July 2001, with an estimated expenditure of £32 million, signifying a pivotal moment in the club’s illustrious history.

Situated only 1.5 miles from The Dell, its central location ensures easy access for both local and visiting fans. The stadium symbolizes the city's fervor for football, combining contemporary design with a profound appreciation for its historical roots.

Memorable Matches

Since its opening, St Mary’s Stadium has hosted numerous memorable matches. The inaugural game took place on August 1, 2001, featuring an exciting friendly against Espanyol. Although the match concluded with a 4–3 victory for the visitors, it established a vibrant atmosphere that would become synonymous with the stadium.

An early notable event at the stadium occurred on May 1, 2002, when Stafford Browne of Aldershot Town made history by scoring the first competitive hat trick in the Hampshire Senior Cup final. This match showcased the venue's capability to host significant events beyond regular league matches.

In 2022, the stadium hosted Group A matches for the UEFA Women’s Euro, which included the England team. This international tournament highlighted St Mary’s on a worldwide platform, attracting large audiences and reinforcing its status as a top-tier football venue.

Features & Facilities

St Mary’s Stadium features a contemporary bowl design that guarantees every spectator a clear and unobstructed view of the pitch. The inclusion of translucent panels and a roof allows natural light to illuminate the playing surface, a quality that has been praised by both players and fans.

The stadium features four unique stands, each named after notable local landmarks: the Itchen, Kingsland, Chapel, and Northam Stands. Situated behind the Itchen Stand is the hub of the stadium’s operations, which includes 42 executive boxes, the club’s administrative offices, press areas, and hospitality suites named in honor of club legends such as Matt Le Tissier and Mick Channon.

Recent improvements have introduced safe-standing areas in the Northam Stand, reflecting the changing preferences of fans. During cup matches, visiting supporters can enjoy up to 4,250 seats, ensuring that all fans have an inclusive experience.

Significance in History

St Mary’s Stadium marks a pivotal development for Southampton FC. The transition from The Dell, a smaller venue accommodating just over 15,000 spectators, was a daring move to fulfill the requirements of Premier League football. This relocation allowed the club to thrive both on the field and in the commercial aspects of a sport that is becoming increasingly business-oriented.

The stadium’s location reflects the club’s roots as the St Mary’s Church Young Men’s Association, symbolizing a return to its origins. It represents the club's evolution from its modest beginnings to its current prominence.

By hosting significant events such as the UEFA Women’s Euro and acting as a community center, St Mary’s has established itself as more than just a stadium; it has become a cultural icon in Southampton.

Future Events

St Mary’s Stadium has a promising future ahead, with numerous thrilling events planned. Premier League matches will continue to be the centerpiece of its calendar, attracting fans from all over the nation to enjoy high-caliber football.

The stadium will also be hosting international friendly matches and possible European competitions as Southampton FC aims to enhance its footprint. In addition, community outreach initiatives and fan interaction events will help ensure that the venue continues to be an integral part of Southampton’s community life.

Initiatives for upcoming upgrades and renovations, which encompass improved amenities for both fans and players, emphasize the club's dedication to preserving its reputation as a top-tier venue.

Experience for Supporters

Experiencing matchdays at St Mary’s Stadium is truly thrilling. The Northam Stand, which hosts the most passionate supporters, generates an electrifying atmosphere that resonates throughout the venue. The introduction of safe-standing areas in 2024 enhances this vibrant energy while ensuring the safety of the fans.

Supporters can take pleasure in a wide range of food and drink selections, in addition to comfortable seating and easily accessible facilities. The hospitality suites provide premium experiences, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to the thrilling gameplay, the inviting atmosphere and thoughtfully designed facilities ensure that attending a match at St Mary’s is an unforgettable experience for everyone—whether you're a devoted fan or visiting for the first time.