27/12/2022

The State Government has delivered an upgraded Coopers Stadium on time and on budget as the countdown continues to Adelaide’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup fixtures.

The $53 million stadium upgrade includes a redeveloped Eastern Stand with a 2200 square metre roof providing improved protection from the elements.

New light towers, big screens, food and beverage outlets, amenities and corporate seating complete a three-stage upgrade that commenced in 2021 and meets FIFA requirements to hold Women’s World Cup fixtures.

Adelaide United fans will benefit immediately with the upgrade completed for holiday fixtures and the business end of the 2022-23 A-League season.

The State Government and Adelaide Venue Management supported upgrading the purpose-built football facility, which will host five FIFA 2023 Women’s World Cup matches featuring powerhouses England and Brazil.

The State Government contributed $45 million for the design and construction of the upgraded stadium required to meet FIFA standards for international media, lighting for television broadcasts and player changerooms.

Coopers Stadium was previously redeveloped to stage fixtures during the 2000 Olympic Games.

Quotes attributable to Tom Koutsantonis, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport:

Coopers Stadium is the home of South Australian football and is now equipped to host an event of massive global significance like the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. 

I can't wait to see the superstars of the women’s world game at the revamped Coopers Stadium, as well as our Adelaide United stars including Craig Goodwin, who excelled in Australia’s Qatar World Cup campaign.

Fans will feel the difference as soon as they walk through Coopers Stadium, with a new Eastern Stand flanked by giant replay screens in the north-west and south-east corners. The North Stand big screen remains. 

New entry points, food outlets, turnstiles, improved stadium audio and increased seating options will take the match day experience to the next level.  

The players will appreciate the revamped change-rooms while local, national and international media can now utilise modern broadcast facilities.

Quotes attributable to Katrine Hildyard, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing:

We fought hard from opposition for Adelaide to be part of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup bid and to host matches. Like many South Australians and visitors to our state, I cannot wait to see this once in a generation event come to life in our city in July.

Hosting Women’s World Cup matches will inspire the next generation of footballers and send a very clear message about the role of women in sport and beyond.

I am proud that the State Government has invested a further $1m into ensuring the legacy left by the FIFA Women’s World Cup is also one that focuses on shifting attitudes about girls and women and preventing gendered violence. As part of this focus, a Women’s Leadership Symposium will be held whilst games are in Adelaide.

The upgrades at Coopers Stadium will leave an enduring legacy - for football in South Australia, with the new and improved features set to be enjoyed by fans and teams for many years to come, and for advancement toward gender equality.