Top 5 Highest-Capacity Football Stadiums in South America
Football in South America isn’t just a sport — it’s a heartbeat. These five legendary stadiums hold more than just fans; they carry decades of chants, triumphs, heartbreak, and pure football devotion. From Mexico City to Rio, each one stands as a true cathedral of the beautiful game.
From Mexico City’s colossal Estadio Azteca to Buenos Aires’ towering Estadio Monumental, these stadiums dominate the football landscape across Latin America. With capacities reaching over 85.000 – they’re more than venues. They’re roaring monuments where football history unfolds.
1. Estadio Azteca (87.523 Capacity)
A historic jewel in Mexico City, Estadio Azteca is the only stadium to host two FIFA World Cup finals (1970 and 1986). With 87,523 seats, it’s home to Club América and the Mexican national team. The stadium is currently undergoing renovations ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which Mexico will co-host. Even during construction, Azteca’s legend and legacy remain as massive as its structure.
2. Estadio Monumental (85,018 Capacity)
As the beating heart of River Plate and Argentine football, Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires has witnessed countless iconic moments — from Copa Libertadores glory to World Cup qualifiers. With a capacity of 85,018, it’s South America’s largest stadium. Renovated in 2023, it now features a sleek, modern design without losing its legendary soul. Few venues blend history and passion as powerfully as the Monumental.
3. Estadio Monumental “U” (80,093 Capacity)
Peru’s Estadio Monumental “U” stands proudly in Lima as one of the continent’s largest football venues. Home to Universitario de Deportes, it boasts a capacity of 80,093 and has hosted high-stakes derbies and international clashes. Its colossal structure and bowl-like design create a fierce atmosphere on matchdays. A true fortress for Peruvian football, it’s as intimidating as it is iconic.
4. Maracanã Stadium (73,139 Capacity)
The fourth on this list is the mighty Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. Originally built for the 1950 World Cup, the stadium once held over 199,000 fans — making it the largest in the world at the time. A major renovation ahead of the 2014 World Cup modernized the venue and reduced its capacity to 73,139. Despite the changes, it still hosted the World Cup final that year and continues to echo with the sounds of football history. Today, it serves as home to Flamengo and Fluminense, remaining a powerful symbol of Brazilian passion for the game.
5. Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha (69,910 Capacity)
Named after Brazilian legend Mané Garrincha, this stadium in Brasília is a tribute to both style and strength. Rebuilt for the 2014 World Cup, it now holds 69,910 fans and features a striking circular design with towering pillars. Used for major matches, concerts, and political events, it remains one of Brazil’s most modern and versatile stadiums. Garrincha’s magic lives on in its name — and its presence.
If you’re further interested in the biggest football stadiums, check out this story about the top five biggest football stadiums in Europe (81.000+).
