How many times have you seen a rookie get rattled under big-time pressure away from the comforts of home?
Far too often, right?
In fairness, you'd be shaking too if you had 70,000 hostile fans breathing down your neck.
Don't forget—they call it home-field advantage for a reason.
In every sport, environment matters. For proof, one need look no further than the 10 most inhospitable venues in the world...
10) Yankee Stadium (New York, New York)
* Baseball
* Home of the New York Yankees
"The House That Ruth Built" is one of the most iconic stadiums in all of sports. While opposing teams get their share of brutality, the Yankees themselves aren't exactly immune to the boos.
In New York, anything short of a championship can be cause for a shakeup. Just ask the recently departed Joe Torre.
9) Lambeau Field (Green Bay, Wisconsin)
* American Football
* Home to the Green Bay Packers
While Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City comes close, no NFL venue can top the history and atmosphere at Lambeau.
The Packers' tradition makes them intimidating enough. Add in rabid cheeseheads and horrific weather conditions, and opposing teams face a recipe for disaster on the Frozen Tundra.
8) Ibrox Stadium (Glasgow, Scotland)
* European Football
* Home to Glasgow Rangers
If you missed it, last Thursday’s UEFA Champions League match between Glasgow Rangers and Barcelona was absolutely electric.
Rangers fans were out in full force, and willed their team to a much-deserved draw against the Spanish giants.
The crowd gets even more raucous when Rangers and Celtic hook up in the Old Firm Derby—arguably Britain’s fiercest rivalry. The Ibrox faithful always give the boys in green stripes problems when they come for a visit.
7) Maksimir Stadium (Zagreb, Croatia)
* European Football
* Home to Dinamo Zagreb, Croatian National Football Team
It doesn't take long to recognize the hostility of the environment at Maksimir.
Dinamo Zagreb and the Croatian National Football team have a huge advantage over their opponents at home. England's Steve McClaren isn't the first manager to learn that the hard way in Croatia’s capital.
Things only get worse when Zagreb plays host to Croatia’s top derby, between Dinamo Zagreb and Hajduk Split. Violence and hooliganism are always issues whenever these two bitter enemies meet.
6) Centenario Stadium (Montevideo, Uruguay)
* European Football
* Home to Penarol, Nacional and the Uruguay National Football Team
When teams come to the Centenario Stadium, they know they’re in for a battle. Even Brazil and Argentina have had trouble coming away with results.
The ground is also the site of the Montevideo derby between Nacional and Penarol. Like the Boca Juniors-River Plate derby in Argentina, the game brings the entire nation of Uruguay to a halt—and splits the country in half.
5) Estadio do Maracana (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
* European Football
* Home to Fluminese and Flamengo
Many football experts and historians consider the Estadio de Maracana to be a football cathedral. Given the stadium’s rich history, who could argue with them?
As one would imagine, the sight of 210,000 angry Brazilians isn’t exactly a welcoming one for visitors.
The Marcana was home to one of the greatest upsets in sports history—Uruguay's win over Brazil in the 1950 World Cup, in a match known as the “Maracancao”. Today, the stadium is the site of the annual derby between Flamengo and Fluminese, two of Rio de Janeiro’s most prominent teams.
As with so many football rivalries, violence and hooliganism are the rule rather than exception.
4) Eden Gardens (Bengal, Kolkata, India)
* Cricket
* Home to the Bengal Cricket Team, Indian National Cricket Team
Eden Gardens is the oldest and most storied cricket ground in India.
Established in 1864, the stadium has a seating capacity of 120,000. Combine that with cricket's popularity in India, and it's easy to imagine how heated matches can be.
Cricket experts will be quick to remind you that Eden Gardens was also the site of one of the largest riots the sporting world has ever seen.
In 1999, an India-Pakistan match saw 65,000 fans storm the pitch. A few thousand injuries later, the contest finally resumed—in front of exactly zero fans.
3) Tiger Stadium (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
* American Football
* Home to the LSU Tigers
With a capacity of 92,400 fans, the on-campus home of Louisiana State University's football team is one of the toughest places to play in the world.
Sound levels have risen to as high as 120 decibels in a stadium often referred to as “Death Valley.”
How do visiting coaches deal with the constant crowd noise?
To be honest, they don’t.
Legendary Alabama coach Bear Bryant may have said it best:
"Baton Rouge happens to be the worst place in the world for a visiting team. It's like being inside a drum."
The Tigers would agree. They're 347-138-18 (.708) all-time in Baton Rouge.
2) Ali Sami Yen Stadium (Istanbul, Turkey)
* European Football
* Home to Galatasaray
Ever watch Danny Dyer’s documentary Real Football Factories: International?
If you haven’t, do yourself a favor and head over to your local Blockbuster.
Dyer studies football hooliganism around the world. In the Turkish episode, he visits the Galatasaray firm or gang known as "UltrAslan."
In listening to the fans' stories, it's quickly apparent how crazy they are.
The Ali Sami Yen Stadium is often called “Hell” due to the intimidating atmosphere. The stabbing of four Leeds fans before the 2000 UEFA Cup semifinals speaks volumes.
On the brighter side, Galatasaray fans always create an electric atmosphere. It’s not surprising that many of Europe’s top clubs came away with nothing to show for their efforts when they travel to Istanbul.
1) La Bombonera (Estadio Alberto J. Armando) (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
* European Football
* Home of Boca Juniors
No. 1 is a no-brainer.
Football is life in Argentina—especially for Boca Juniors fans. The diehard supporters have earned the nickname “La Doce”—the 12th Man.
In the heart of the La Boca area of Buenos Aires, La Bombonera is right next door to the home of bitter rival River Plate. If you haven’t watched a derby game between these two sides, you simply haven’t lived as a sports fan.
It was No. 1 on the list "50 Sporting Things You Must Do Before You Die" by the Observer for a reason.
And that’s just WATCHING. Imagine playing in front of a stadium full of football-mad fans.
Some would even make the case that Boca-River Plate is the biggest derby in all of sports. The explosion of energy and noise are simply unmatched by any other stadium in the world.
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11 months ago
Really enjoyed that Tim. Thanks for the read. Having been to Ibrox on many occasions, including for a Scottish Cup Final I can only agree with Tim's comments.
11 months ago
Well-compiled articled Tim....much appreciated. Gotto agree that Bombonera Stadium is the toughest place to go.
But u hav missed out one English Stadium tht is already in the History books for not loosing at home for more than 3 years???
STAMFORD BRIDGE. Yes, they may drawn many games, lost in Champions League, Carling Cup, bt look at their League stats
from 11 months ago
Just so you know, it's either "La Bombonera" or "Boca Stadium", not "Bombonera Stadium"
Not trying to be a pompous prick, just FYI.
11 months ago
uh am I the only one that noticed that they have La Bombanera in Argentina noted as EUROPEAN FOOTBALL!!?? This article MUST be written by an american cause there is no way any other person would think that argentina is in europe....thats bloody embarassing
from 11 months ago
Uh, You are the ignorant one. When he says European, he is referring to European Football. Just as when someone outside of the US plays gridiron, it is called American Football.
You're bloody embarassing.
GEAUX TIGERS!
from 11 months ago
chris who plays american football?only americans right?thats why its called american football.football or as you would call it soccer is played world wide therefore you're arguement is rubbish.european football isn't played in argentina its played in europe.sth american football is played in sth america and so on and so on....
11 months ago
I believe the "European Football" means that is soccer, not American Football. I guess the title used to describe Soccer outside of the United States is "European Football."
11 months ago
You are clearly not from America, judging by your inability to read
11 months ago
sheikh stop talking crap, stamford bridge has a terrible atmosphere all the time, they didnt even get 25000 turn up for a recent champions league game against rosenborg! for a so called big team thats an embarrassment.
cant comment on lots of the other sports but id agree with most of the football (soccer) ones on there. anfield is absolutely cracking on a european night but less so for premiership games these days which is a shame.
the ali sami yen is a good stadium for fan atmosphere and that but id put besiktas crowd down as more intimidating if less famous in all honesty
good list there!
from 11 months ago
i'm absolutely flabbegasted that you failed to notice the heading...so it implies that you've not got the gist of the topic.
In terms of the toughest venues, if you say that Stamford Bridge doesn't fall in that list, i must advise you to stop watching EPL and watch Serie A rather.
Turn ups ain't a factor here...and the figure you mentioned above has been recorded for just one game when Chelsea had a poor run of form
11 months ago
Where would you rank the following:
- Arrowhead Stadium (home of the Kansas City Chiefs)
- Cameron Indoor Stadium (home of the Duke Blue Devils)
- College Station (Penn State Football)
from 11 months ago
College Station is Texas A&M. State College or Happy Valley is Penn State.
from 11 months ago
Ok, ok....my bad.
11 months ago
is the first picture fom Hajduk's Split Poljud stadium ? That is one crazy atmosphere where you have to carry a shield if you are taking the corner ( if you play for opposite team like Dinamo of course ). If I may I would like to add two more places - Marseillles Velodrome and Naples' st Nicola stadium.
11 months ago
Parc des Princes was a hostile enough place when the French rugby team played there
11 months ago
You failed to mention that during the 1988 Auburn Univ. @ LSU game, the crowd reaction after the game-winning touchdown registered as an earthquake on a seismograph on campus. What other venue in the world can claim that feat?
GEAUX TIGERS!!!
11 months ago
RE: DEATH VALLEY/TIGER STADIUM
Also worth noting, on GameDay by noon the entire 10 sq. mile campus is overrun with hundreds of thousands of fans "tailgating" which is to set up tents, food, ice-chests, stereos, etc., and PARTY until gametime in the evening. Thousands of people go to campus for the day even if they don't have tickets just for the fun. Authentic cajun/creole cuisine is around you left and right. The people are crazy but fun. You may get threatened and offered all you can eat and drink in the same conversation. Opposing fans are teased but generally offered food and shelter. Could not say enough about it.
11 months ago
the only flaw this list has is that it doesn't list the fact that on november 3rd 2007 bryant denny stadium in tuscaloosa alabama will be the loudest on earth ever, ever ,ever times 20 to the 2nd power plus 1. sorry lsu...doesn't look like an sec team wins the nc this year. oh well. can't win every year.
from 11 months ago
yea david the bryant denny stadium will be the loudest on earth ever when LSU BEATS BAMA!!!
GO LSU BEAT BAMA!!!
from 11 months ago
poor david, no doubt alabama's time is coming little man, not this year. no doubt you'll be cheering for LSU to romp OSU just like we did for Florida. say bye bye to the top 25 little man.
from 11 months ago
Sorry David, but that "dream" didn't come true. LSU BEAT Bama....and the roar was great alright, by the LSU Fans that were there :-) Guess it DOES look like an SEC team will win..yeahhhhh!!!!
from 11 months ago
Sorry, I was at Bryant Denny Stadium saturday. It reminded me of Romper Room compared to Tiger stadium, and that was when Bama was ahead. Could of heard a pin drop in the last minute.
from 11 months ago
Looks like ole David needs to be more careful about his preditions, from a good source I have it that Nickey says that nobody on his defense could even start at LSU, and Les should realize he has died and gone to heaven, this from the horses ass's mouth
faithful in BR
11 months ago
20 to the 2nd power plus 1? Have you ever been to death valley? Even Savior Saban won't be enough for your team this year, sorry david. Maybe next year if Saban can recruit enough of our Louisiana boys to help ya'll out. Geaux Tigers!!
from 11 months ago
You mean those LSU Tigers recruited from Mississippi and Texas? Just kidding....I'm a Mississippian sturring the 'stuff'. Hotti totti, Gosh amighty, who the Hell are we, HEY...........You know the rest. I actually like the Bayou Bengals.
11 months ago
WELCOME TO BLUE HELL. BAD BLUE BOYS, DINAMO ZAGREB
11 months ago
Tko ne voli, joj tko ne voli,
Dinamo sa Save.
Taj e oti , joj taj e oti ,
razbijene glave!
BAD BLUE BOYS FOREVER!!!
11 months ago
Penn State does not play its home games at Kyle Field in College Station. Last I heard Penn State plays in State College, PA.
11 months ago
7) Maksimir Stadium (Zagreb, Croatia)-This is picture fom Hajduk's Split Poljud stadium. And that is one crazy atmosphere, nothing Zagreb-Dinamo the best suporters are TORCIDA (Hajduk Split)
If dont belive me see on YouTube (Hajduk Split - Dalmatinac, Torcida Split ) you will see! ;)
bug100@net.hr
11 months ago
American Football can only hide in a dark place when comparing to real football - EUROPEAN!
Especially when compared in huliganism!
DINAMO ZAGREB FOREVER!!!
B.B.B.
11 months ago
I have never been to an International Futbol game, so I'll have to assume they are impressive from a fan participation stand point. 210,000 people in one stadium is incredible. I hail from Columbus, OH, home of the Horseshoe (105,000), so I can only relate 210,000 to twice that noise level. Mind boggling.
I liked the story. BTW, Bayou said I should check it out. Maybe he gets some sort of reward for leading the way, I don't know, just thpught I'd mention it.
11 months ago
There is no other place on Earth like a Saturday night in LSU's Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It's just a magical and mystical place. And LOUD! LSU fans love night game because it gives us time to do what we do best. Cook, drink and party! Former LSU QB Rohan Davy was quoted as saying " Even before the game is started you can smell the bourbon from mid-field." The tailgating is like no other place you will ever see in college football. Where else but Baton Rouge will you find college football fan cooking Crawfish Etouffee, Chicken & Sausage Gumbo, Rabbit & Sausage Jambalaya, Cochon De Lait or Blackened Alligator? There may be close to 93,000 inside Tiger Stadium during the game but there are also another 50-6Your ears ring for days after the game is over0,000 still tailgating and watching the game on TV. Did I mention Death Valley is loud? How many other places has the crowd noise literally moved the Earth? And that was before LSU added a second upper deck. It's so loud that you can't even hear the person standing next to you. It's like sitting next to a jet engine. I still get goose bumps whenever I hear the words; "IT'S SATURDAY NIGHT IN DEATH VALLEY AND HERE COME YOUR FIGHTING TIGERS OF LSU!!!"
LET THE VALLEY SHAKE!!!
GEAUX LSU TIGERS!!
from 11 months ago
I visited the vaunted Tiger Stadium earlier this year for a non-conference cupcake game. The stadium, inside and out, was more like Disney Land. Kids with their little tiger ears on, being pulled in wagons behind Mom and Dad ....SCARY!!! By the way, the only "Death Valley" is at Clemson. Check your history LSU fans, your stadium was originally referred to as "Deaf Valley". If you can't get it right, who else should?
HOOK 'EM HORNS!!!!!!
11 months ago
Croatian team never lost a game in Maksimir!!! I repeat NEVER!
Maksimir is unassailable fort for any team!
Best fans in the world!!!
Dinamo forever!!!
Bad Blue Boys, Zagreb
check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QQR8zrasDg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3Tmhd58o-s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWVw8y2wCY4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgbUVf9dsGM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDb2jDj9K3U
11 months ago
Croatian team never lost a game in Maksimir!!! I repeat NEVER!
Maksimir is unassailable fort for any team!
Best fans in the world!!!
Dinamo forever!!!
Bad Blue Boys, Zagreb
check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QQR8zrasDg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3Tmhd58o-s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWVw8y2wCY4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgbUVf9dsGM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDb2jDj9K3U
11 months ago
Croatian team never lost a game in Maksimir!!! I repeat NEVER!
Maksimir is unassailable fort for any team!
Best fans in the world!!!
Dinamo forever!!!
Bad Blue Boys, Zagreb
check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QQR8zrasDg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3Tmhd58o-s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWVw8y2wCY4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgbUVf9dsGM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDb2jDj9K3U
11 months ago
First image is NOT from Dinamo Zagreb, it's definitely from Hajduk Split. And just to say, atmosphere is much much heavier.
p.s. How comes that any of US stadiums is on this list ???
volume up your speakers and cry
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnD4D3xA6rw
11 months ago
nice article
DINAMO ZAGREB
11 months ago
The cricket match in Eden Gardens you mention did not have any fans storm the pitch, let alone the 65,000 you mention. Neither were there thousands of injuries.
To provide some background: Pakistan was touring India after 12 years in 1999. With political tensions always simmering, an incident on the 4th day of the match where India's main batsman was given out under what can only be described as rather unusual circumstances. This incited the crowd to throw things on the ground (food stuff, bottles of water etc). Play was halted for some period of time as cautionary measures for the safety of the Pak players had to be taken. Play did resume later on that day with Pakistan needing just 1 more wicket on the 5th and final day of the match to pull off a famous victory.
On the 5th day, the crowd, thinking they could get the match to be abandoned, rather than see an Indian loss, started throwing things on the field again. It is then that the police and administrators decided to evacuate the stadium and then the match was finally played out in front of no spectators.
from 9 months ago
Yes, I think you're right about the 1999 Eden Gardens incident. I think Tim confused it with the incident in the 1996 World Cup semi-final between India and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka made 251, and India collapsed from 98/1 to 120/8 while chasing. The crowd rioted, and the match referee decided to award the match to Sri Lanka because continuing play was impossible. So an angry crowd doesn't always mean it's good for the home team!
11 months ago
Edit./typo correction:
There is no other place on Earth like a Saturday night in LSU's Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It's just a magical and mystical place. And LOUD! LSU fans love night game because it gives us time to do what we do best. Cook, drink and party! Former LSU QB Rohan Davy was quoted as saying " Even before the game is started you can smell the bourbon from mid-field." The tailgating is like no other place you will ever see in college football. Where else but Baton Rouge will you find college football fan cooking Crawfish Etouffee, Chicken & Sausage Gumbo, Rabbit & Sausage Jambalaya, Cochon De Lait or Blackened Alligator? There may be close to 93,000 inside Tiger Stadium during the game but there are also another 50-60,000 still tailgating and watching the game on TV. Did I mention Death Valley is loud? How many other places has the crowd noise literally moved the Earth? And that was before LSU added a second upper deck. It's so loud that you can't even hear the person standing next to you. It's like sitting next to a jet engine. Your ears will ring for days after going to a game is game at Death Valley. I still get goose bumps whenever I hear the words; "IT'S SATURDAY NIGHT IN DEATH VALLEY AND HERE COME YOUR FIGHTING TIGERS OF LSU!!!"
LET THE VALLEY SHAKE!!!
GEAUX LSU TIGERS!!
11 months ago
Here are two great videos on Saturday night in LSU's Tiger Stadium. aka Death Valley:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hU16TeT5-ig
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqQDZcBB2dY
GEAUX LSU TIGERS!!
11 months ago
yes the stadiom on first image is HAJDUK SPLIT CROATIA
They are throwing on you coins,cigarette lighters and you must have shield when you are near end of playground
11 months ago
"I still get goose bumps whenever I hear the words; "IT'S SATURDAY NIGHT IN DEATH VALLEY AND HERE COME YOUR FIGHTING TIGERS OF LSU!!!"
LET THE VALLEY SHAKE!!!
GEAUX LSU TIGERS!!"
Amen.
11 months ago
That happens pretty much everywhere now...especially down south.
11 months ago
^^^...i'm talking about tailgaiting.
11 months ago
Forget about Dinamo Zagreb.. I guess none of you have ever been to Red Star stadium in Belgrade, Serbia when the former European Champions Crvena Zvezda play against one of their hated rivals. Now that is an atmosphere unlike no other!
Ziveli Srbija!!!
11 months ago
why does the same person keep on talking about tiger stadium. we understand its loud, but there is no way that it compares to ibrox during an old firm match. sorry but american football just cant compare in terms of passion to that of real football
from 11 months ago
Well, I'm not that person...but, though I know nothing of ibrox, and still would have to say, "Yes, American football can match the passion and it is REAL football". Maybe you need to go to an LSU game at Tiger Stadium, but also come during the day for the "tailgating"...you would not only see the hospitality of the people, but the PASSION for football and a REAL FOOTBALL GAME!
11 months ago
It is...this is Poljud. I just posted a comment on another article with the same picture assuming that this is the home of the 'white boys'...here is poljud for people that are only into top few leagues....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnD4D3xA6rw
11 months ago
Arrowhead Stadium is numero uno in the N.F.L.. Lambeau has lost alot of it's mystique. As far as the mention of Cameron Indoor, I'd put that at a close second to Phog Allen Fieldhouse.
11 months ago
With regards to Ibrox - I have there and also Celtic Park, Glasgow. Celtic Park is a much more intimidating place to visit. Just ask Milan the European Champion who lost there recently. Celtic can not win away which backs up my point further. Really good article though!
11 months ago
American football cannot compare to European football? Are you out of your mind? It is the heart and soul of the southern United States, there is nothing better than a rivalry game between to SEC schools on a Saturday night! And yes, I have been to a European football game in the ibrox and I have to say GEAUX TIGERS
11 months ago
Poljud - buit 1979 - most beautiful stadium on world at that time
Torcida - since 1959 -
The Real Football Factories International:
1- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WW31WkVfBnQ
2- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EF1KIVzTpT8
11 months ago
correction:
Torcida Split - Since "1950"
11 months ago
woahh nooww fuck bama geaux tigers all the way we are gona kick some ASS.
11 months ago
It s really an amazing atmosphere on Maksimir when playing against Hajduk. But, it s not more quiet on Poljud, Split; Marakana, Belgrad.
ivio Dinamo, ivjela Hrvatska!
11 months ago
There is NO PLACE like Tiger Stadium! I watched the 1971 Notre Dame vs LSU game at Tiger Stadium on national TV and decided I really wanted to check out that school. I came to LSU from out of state and it was the best move I ever made! I love the people, the food, the culture,etc. and most of all the TIGERS! I was going to another school before I came down here and checked Baton Rouge out and cancelled all of my other trips to colleges and gave up scholarships to be a TIger. Thanks for the scholarship to LSU and all the wonderful memories of my days there. They still are being made. I am proud of our team and really hope we show who we are in Alabama. Geaux Tigers! By the way, I am a woman and a proud Bengal Belle, and I don't think there is a bigger fan than me! Louisiana, with all of its problems, is my home, and I am so proud to be a TIGER FAN and that Death Valley is rated so high!
BEAT BAMA!!!!!
11 months ago
Crystal Rocks! I would be happy to relinquish Death Valley's loudest venue to LSU's supreme victory at "The Satan BowL" at Alabama! GEAUX TIGERS! Lets shake the earth in Alabama too!
11 months ago
You said it best....."Let the Valley Shake"!!! Did you LSU fans happen to notice it takes only 1 comment from opposing side to get us in a huff? LSU honestly has TRUE, DEVOTED fans & we should all be proud of our continous, wholehearted support for the LSU FIGHTING TIGERS! GOD BLESS US ALL...and please Lord let us bring the boys home from Alabama with smiles. :)
11 months ago
In America sports are not about the fan fights and the hate of all others. Like we have all said in the messages, America has great fans and great sites because we care about the game. It is not how we can be the event. We go to games to have fun and visit friends. We do it on fridays at high school, saturday at college and sunday at pro games. We can control our emotions and give a hand to the other team for a good game. We are the best and you do not have to agree. It is ok for you to be wrong if you do not agree.
11 months ago
Death Valley is no doubt the best college stadium in the country! Oh and to all that say European football is better than American football, you OBVIOUSLY haven't been to an American football game, especially not at Death Valley. Beat Bama and Geaux Tigers!! And by the way, I BLEED PURPLE AND GOLD!
p.s. i'm going to the lsu bama game it's gonna be awesome!! SABAN IS TIGER BAIT!
11 months ago
"VALLEY FLOYD ROAD*...
...THE MIST ROLLING IN FROM THE THAMES!
...MY DESIRE...
...IS ALWAYS TO BE FOUND AT...
...VALLEY FLOYD ROAD*!!!!!!"
*That's Charlton Athletic's football ground of South East London, in England.
Up the Addicks!!!
11 months ago
good list, great stadiums and of course a little bias from the author. You'd have to throw a couple of USA sites to appease the masses/readers for sure and I would agree that maybe LSU would be #1 in the states.
But for the world, there should not be 1 in the top 10 much less maybe the top 15 or so. it is not our fault, just comes with the territory of being a civilized nation. After all, not much feces and urine flying around at US games, ref's being beaten on the field, players being killed or starting fires in the stands with flares that are commonplace around the world
I've been to a couple and there are probably ten stadiums in latin america alone that would be tougher than anything in the US. No team is "scared" to go play at any stadium here in the states, but there are instances throughout Turkey and South America where the opposing teams actually feared for their lives after playing on the opposing pitches..
I would be interested in you doing one just for the US and one for the rest of the world just to see your thoughts. I've heard of a stadium in Turkey that is supposed to be absolutely insanely loud and dangerous.
11 months ago
Haha, yeah, David. Is Saban's ass and ego still sore? I'm sure it was loud, and it's a cute little stadium, but there is nothing like a Saturday Night in Death Valley. Last night was fun. LSU didn't play worth a crap and still won.
from 11 months ago
There is no telling how good LSU would be if they ever played a 2 penalty game like BAMA did.
11 months ago
Atmosphere? Couldn't beat the old Millwall Ground - The Den in South East London. Milllllllllllllllllllllllwallllllllll. Small Ground Big Noise
11 months ago
No Anfield?
Have you never seen Juventus, Chelsea (x2), Barcelona, Roma, Olympiakos, St Ettiene, too name but a small few, crumble in front of the mighty kop on a european night?
Obviously not
11 months ago
Final score 41 to 34... Tigers. Don't complain Bama fans... the refs were officiating crew was obviously pulling for ya'll. Maybe Saban's salary will be cut and you can pay your players more next year!
11 months ago
Hate to disillusion you, but I'm from America (and by the way Proud of it) and I DID notice they put that. But just WHY would they have to be American to make this mistake? They could be from Australia, Africa, Canada, and so on and so on. We Americans DO know where Argentina is and we even know its in South American! People make mistakes, doesn't mean you have to be insulting about it. God bless!
11 months ago
No offense to LSU fans, but on October 27th, 2007, when Oregon beat USC 24-17, Autzen Stadium was recorded at 127 decibels, which is louder than a jet taking off.
11 months ago
"...when Oregon beat USC 24-17, Autzen Stadium was recorded at 127 decibels..."
That is only a one time occurance. Tiger Stadium is "jet engine loud" at EVERY home game!!
Have the duck fans every made the earth shake?
11 months ago
ahahhahahahahhahahah LMAO! Alabama couldn't even buy themselves a team, or coach should I say, good enough to beat the LSU TIGERS!!! LOL! And the "DUCKS" omg what kind of mascot is that for a football team anyway? Who in tha hell is afraid of a damn duck?! Thats shameful! Nah ya'll, YES YA'LL can keep your Ducks and Elephants or whatever becuz WE'LL KEEP ROARIN WITH OUR TIGERS ANYDAY!!! GEAUX TIGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
11 months ago
Also, failed to mention that Bama was 14-0-1 at that venue from 1971 to 1999. Can you say undefeated?
11 months ago
Where's Red Star's - Marakana ? They have very nosy and fantastic fans !
11 months ago
haha Geaux Tigers! I have to say, I've been to a bunch of other stadiums, and Death Valley by far is the best ever. I went to the LSU-Bama game, and they can't touch us!
11 months ago
I was glad to see this comment because when I read "European" under "Argentina" I was a little puzzled! But I just figured, "Well, I really don't know much about sports ALL over the WORLD." I'm sure the writer of the article (as well as anybody living in Argentina) knows much more about it than I do!
11 months ago
...and if I'm not mistaken, when the Florida Gators came to Baton Rouge this year, people had been arriving at campus as early as 2 days before the game! Yes - the LSU fans can be quite intense!! I'm sure lots of other teams have fans like that too, though.
11 months ago
Geaux Tigers!!! We don't need violence, we have the passion! Oh yes and the food and drinking. I am a Bengal Belle that proudly bleeds purple and gold!
11 months ago
Has anyone of you heard for Serbian champions Red Star from Belgrade and their stadium Marakana, something about their fans...? Marakana must be in first 10 !
11 months ago
Their biggest fans groups : "Delije Sever", "Belgrade Boys Red Star", most known as B.B.R.S, "Ultras", "Heroes", "Brigates", "Young Hooligans". . .
11 months ago
With all due respect to all, but please post links to some videos with your comments. Not some commercial videos, but real ones, so we can hear that audience !!!
11 months ago
Here : http://www.delije.net/av/fudbal/0506/0506_bazel_trening_1.wmv - this is training before match against Basel
http://www.delije.net/av/fudbal/0708/0708_cz_bayern_1.wmv - match against Bayern
http://www.delije.net/av/fudbal/0708/0708_cz_groclin_2.wmv - little koreo against Groclin
11 months ago
as posted before: Hajduk Split - Torcida - Poljud stadium
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnD4D3xA6rw
11 months ago
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTAnsyKoE0Y The best fans in the world - Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IU0Q3pce5FE The best fans in the world - Part 2 (Flares)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfZRXeinYe4 The best fans in the world - Part 3 (Chants)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mXS25xDG6I The best fans in the world - Part 4 (Hooligans)
All the videos of Red Star's fans ! enjoy...
And I cannot believe that Ibrox is on the list ! ! ! It's like an theater... ooooooo, uuuuuhhhhhh....nothing else... do they have some songs ?
11 months ago
you are a real alabama fan, a real loser---too bad you can only wish you were a lsu tiger. all you are is tigerbait.
11 months ago
Any comments for Red Star's Fans ?
B E L G R A D E
B O Y S
R E D
S T A R
We're simply the best !
11 months ago
Here are some coreos of Delije
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ng_asN9TC5A
11 months ago
to all European football fans...please forgive the American ignorance on this site. The LSU Tigers fans represent one of the best teams in the best university American football conference (SEC) in the country. Their fans and stadium are the most hostile in the States, and most American fans know that. But people from the southern US tend to be a bit narrow, and they embarass the rest of us. their attempts to compare American football fan passion to Eurpean football fan passion is just part of the self-absorbed American stereoptype that many of you hold.
11 months ago
Brian,
If you think the europeans are so great, please feel free to move to the lovely overcrowed continent.
11 months ago
LSU! Geaux Tigers! Tiger Stadium (aka Death Valley)! There's no place like home.
#3 Best Stadium in the world of any sport (which makes us #1 in the USA of any sport). Wow!
Zibberfitchy
11 months ago
Red Star Belgrade fans are one of the best in the world !
11 months ago
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfZRXeinYe4
DELIJE ARE THE BEST FANS ON THE WORLD !!!
11 months ago
I must say that is true...
11 months ago
I really enjoy reading about the passion for sports around the world. While I agree at times we Americas are inwardly focused, I believe the love for the game and unending pride in ones team are what makes meaningful. Regardless of what country, what sport, or what team, to truly believe the most important thing. What separates animals from humans if not the ability to choose, to love, to show compassion. It gives me great pleasure to see equal passion from other countries about what they cherish and value.
Geaux Tigers - #1 LSU fan : Fairfax Virgina USA
11 months ago
GO TO HELL OLE MISS, GO TO HELL!
11 months ago
oops, Typo. That's Nick SABAN.
11 months ago
Hey Greg...I know that a guy who "touts" himself as a "horn" fan is not actually trying to criticize anyone about tailgating atmosphere. I lived in Austin for 4 years and have been in Baton Rouge for over 10 years. The supposed tailgating that happens at Bonghorn games is the most pitiful excuse for tailgating that I have ever seen. I have been to lots of Big 12 games and more SEC games and there is not a place in the Big 12 that can hold the jock of ANY site in the SEC when it comes to tailgating atmosphere. Evern Starkvegas, MS is a better tailgate spot than Austin.
11 months ago
Texas fan, our basketball arena is "deaf valley" and Oregon fan, we beat top 25 teams every week in Baton Rouge. And just because we don't have people setting the stadiums on fire or people coming on the field or "Pitches" is because we are civilized. We can be passionate and love our team and not feel the need to set our own stadiums on fire!
11 months ago
Response to Brian Gay's comment below:
"to all European football fans...please forgive the American ignorance on this site. The LSU Tigers fans represent one of the best teams in the best university American football conference (SEC) in the country. Their fans and stadium are the most hostile in the States, and most American fans know that. But people from the southern US tend to be a bit narrow, and they embarass the rest of us. their attempts to compare American football fan passion to Eurpean football fan passion is just part of the self-absorbed American stereoptype that many of you hold."
First off, "embarrass" is spelled with two r's, not 1, you dumbass. You're embarrassing yourself and making the rest of us Americans look stupid because of your lack of education.
Secondly, a narrow mindset is nothing endemic to the South; it is representative of the country as a whole, and it has more to do with the U.S.A.'s historic policy of isolationism than anything else. Go back to school and take a history or culture class. And you, Brian, show this narrow mindset when you refer to the "American ignorance on this site." You are referring to people from the United States, yet you use the word "American", which (if you have ever been to South America, you would know) refers to the Americas--all of it, not just the U.S.A. If you weren't so narrow-minded and self-absorbed, you would have known that.
Finally, and most importantly, go fuck yourself.
11 months ago
Well well well, very interesting site i just stumbled on now.
Enjoyed reading the list but being from Europe I could obviously not relate to any of the US stadiums. Have been to Argentina though and the atmosphere is unbelievable.
I think that you cant compare US sports with any other country, it is unbelievable that u guys manage to fill stadiums with ten thousands of ppl for university games. When our first Rugby team (University of Birmingham, England) played their most important match this year 3000 ppl came to see it and they put up stand with seats for..500ppl.
You should be really proud of that. On the other hand I dont think that, and thats my personal opinion, there is any US sport that can create as much passion and love for ppl as football does.
Soccer as u call it is slowly coming up in your country and I am sure that in a few years the US boys will be able to get close to the biggest South American and European Teams. Uve definitely got the infrastructure, the money and the willingness to succeed.
Personally I support HSV, Hamburg a German team in the Bundesliga. We r doing really well for the moment (3rd, US boy Benny Feilhaber used to play for us for a few years) . Our team was 18th last season for quite a few weeks. In any league in any country fans would start to desert the stadium, attendance would have drop and the crowd would get impatient and even start booing.
The Hamburg fans did none of this, the stadium was sold out EVERY SINGLE WEEK (55000 ppl) and instead of being against the team there was constant support from the crowd.
We might not be as loud, as dangerous nor as fanatic as fans in Turkey, Serbia or Argentina but we are definitely committed to the club 100%.
Any way, one thing is certain.
Germany is winning the 2010 World Cup and I say:
WER WIRD DEUTSCHER MEISTER H-H-H-HSV
NUR DER HSV
11 months ago
wow..hey tim wot a load of crap.....you may wish to watch "football factories".........
as a glasgow rangers supporter...ibrox..??.........maybe in 67 but surely not 07.
where are the stadiums of galatasaray or panathinaikos..???
11 months ago
I think it is funny that someone said Death Valley (LSU) is as loud as a jet taking off every game. I go to LSU, and have been to every home game this season. True the crowd was great for the Auburn and Florida games, but the stadium was basically silent last night for the LA Tech game, and that was BEFORE half of the fans left the stadium at halftime. We may be passionate, but only to win, and once the win is secured, no one seems to care about the game anymore.
11 months ago
No mention of Estadio Azteca in Mexico City? I guess getting battery acid and bags or urine thrown at you doesn't count as hostile. Or Pigs Heads at Camp Nou, for that matter.
11 months ago
No mention of Estadio Azteca in Mexico City? I guess getting battery acid and bags or urine thrown at you doesn't count as hostile. Or Pigs Heads at Camp Nou, for that matter.
11 months ago
This article is on tough stadiums,.. not ones with idiots inside of them.
11 months ago
That "as high as 120 decibels" should have also said "every Saturday night there is a home game in Baton Rouge." That's the difference. 92,000+ plus fans...every Saturday night. Loud as jet taking off...every Saturday night. Tens of thousands outside the stadium partying...every Saturday night. And without the body count of the venerable European stadiums. Win or lose, beat a weak (OK, skightly weaker) USC finally or not, LSU always loves the Tigers and the valley always shakes. I would love to go see a game in Autzen Stadium (not to mention La Bombonera), and I really look forward to a heck of football game against a great team in January, but until then, Death Valley will do just fine.
11 months ago
By all means, Brian don't embarass yourself, be an apologist.
In the Nederlands, a liberal open society, when Ajax plays Feyenoord, Rotterdam fans yell juden, juden, and show up to the match in gas masks,(not just a few jerks either, a lot), because everyone thinks Amsterdam is full of jews, and the Amsterdam fans yell cockroach, cockroach, because everyone thinks that