The capacity of Old Trafford is one of the most icon features about the stadium. Old Trafford – the home grounds of Manchester United – is one of the most recognisable football stadiums in the world and it is situated in Manchester, England. The stadium was built in 1910 and has had various expansions since then, giving it a lengthy history. One of Old Trafford’s most important features is its capacity, which has increased dramatically over time.
At present, the capacity of Old Trafford is around 74,310. However, there are plans in place to increase the capacity of the stadium that could potentially make it the largest stadiums in England in terms of capacity.
In this article, we’ll look at the history of Old Trafford’s seating capacity, how it has evolved through time, and what the stadium’s potential future may be.
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The capacity of Old Trafford
When Old Trafford first opened in 1910, it could accommodate 80,000 people. This made it one of the biggest football stadiums in the world – in terms of capacity – at the time. A friendly game between Manchester United and Liverpool was played at the stadium for the first time after it opening, drawing 70,000 spectators. The stadium soon gained popularity for both its large seating capacity and the fervent enthusiasm of Manchester United’s supporters.
Old Trafford’s capacity has been fluctuating over the years; the stadium’s capacity of 80,000 was reached in 1939 and held until the 1950s. Due to restoration requirements and safety concerns, the capacity was decreased to 58,000 in the 1970s.
Old Trafford had a significant renovation in the 1990s that involved building additional stands and increasing the stadium’s capacity. The capacity increased by 1995 and it was then raised to 61,000 in 1996. Old Trafford’s capacity was raised to 68,000 in 2000, making it one of the biggest stadiums in Europe during that time.
A second extension was finished in 2006, bringing the capacity to 76,000. This was accomplished by incorporating a new, 7,500-seat tier into the East Stand. With the addition, Old Trafford surpassed Wembley Stadium to become the second-largest stadium in the United Kingdom.
What is the Capacity of Old Trafford today
With 74,310 seats, Old Trafford is now the third-largest stadium in England, only behind Wembley Stadium and the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The stadium continues to be renowned for the passionate support and electrifying atmosphere created by the Manchester United supporters.
The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, The East Stand, The South Stand, and The Stretford End are the stadium’s four main stands. The biggest – The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand – has a capacity of 26,000. There are 12,700 seats available in The East Stand, 9,950 in The South Stand, and 20,500 on The Stretford End.
With its remarkable cantilever roof style and extensive use of red brick, Old Trafford is renowned for its distinctive architecture. Restaurants, cafes, and a museum devoted to the history of Manchester United are just a few of the facilities that can be found within the stadium.
The future of the capacity of Old Trafford
For a number of years, Manchester United has thought about increasing the capacity at Old Trafford. The club proposed to Trafford Council in 2019 to raise the stadium’s capacity to 90,000. The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand would gain an additional tier, bringing its capacity to 34,000, as part of the project.
The idea has not yet received approval, and there are worries about how such an extension will affect the neighbourhood. The project’s anticipated cost of £200 million is another issue that raises questions.
Manchester United is still dedicated to increasing the capacity at Old Trafford despite these obstacles.
Old Trafford would grow to be one of the biggest football stadiums in Europe and the largest in England if the extension is allowed and carried out. This would be a noteworthy accomplishment for the team and would support the club’s efforts to maintain its position as one of the biggest and most prosperous football club in the world.
If you want to know the top 10 biggest stadiums in the UK in terms of capacity, you can check this post out: What are the top 10 biggest stadiums in UK?
FAQs
What is the current capacity of Old Trafford?
The current capacity of old Trafford is 74,310.
What is the largest capacity that Old Trafford has ever had?
When Old Trafford initially opened in 1910, it could accommodate 80,000 people.
How many stands are there at Old Trafford?
The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, the East Stand, the South Stand, and the Stretford End are the stadium’s four principal stands.
Which stand has the largest capacity at Old Trafford?
At Old Trafford, the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand can accommodate 26,000 spectators, making it the largest stand in the stadium.
Has Old Trafford’s capacity ever been reduced?
Yes, due to refurbishment needs and safety concerns, Old Trafford’s capacity was lowered to 58,000 in the 1970s.
Has Manchester United proposed any further expansion of Old Trafford’s capacity?
Yes, Manchester United made a request to the Trafford Council in 2019 to expand the stadium’s capacity to 90,000.
What would be the cost of expanding Old Trafford’s capacity to 90,000?
The extension is expected to cost about £200 million.
What is the atmosphere like at Old Trafford?
Old Trafford’s atmosphere is recognised for the passionate support and great energy produced by Manchester United’s supporters.
Final Thoughts
Old Trafford can now hold 74,310 spectators instead of the 80,000 it could in 1910, which was the stadium’s initial capacity. Over the years, the stadium has had a number of modifications and additions, all of which have improved the amenities and increased the stadium’s capacity.
Old Trafford would become the biggest football stadium in the United Kingdom if Manchester United’s bid to increase its capacity to 90,000 is approved. Even if the plan hasn’t been accepted yet, the club is nonetheless dedicated to it and views it as a long-term goal.
Old Trafford is n famous stadium with a storied past and devoted supporters. The stadium’s capacity has been a major factor in its success throughout the years and any additional capacity will only help it maintain its status as one of the best football stadiums in the world.
