Paris La Défense Arena - view from the sky - 2019 © PLD - Philippe Guignard

Years of construction: 2013-2017
Architect: Atelier Christian de Portzamparc
Surface area: 94,000 sq.m including 31,000 sq.m of offices
. Capacity: 40,000 places
Address : 8 Rue des Sorins, Nanterre
Former names: Arena 92, U Arena

Paris La Défense Arena, Europe's largest indoor arena

Nested in the heart of the Jardins de l'Arche, in the immediate vicinity of La Défense, Paris La Défense Arena is an emblematic player in the district's cultural influence. A true symbol of the transformation of the area, and bearing its name, the hall, which is part of a lively, dynamic and constantly changing space, contributes to the attractiveness of Paris La Défense.

An enclosure with a neighbourhood-wide dimension

Paris La Défense Arena - exterior view - 2019 © PLD - Carlos Ayesta

Born from a private project developed by Stadôme and the Racing Arena, the complex was designed by the architecture firm Atelier Christian de Portzamparc in collaboration with Vinci, and the exterior fittings were carried out by Paris La Défense.

A modular, versatile and modern 94,000 sq.m facility, Paris La Défense Arena is the resident stadium of the Racing 92 rugby club and hosts a varied cultural and sporting programme. The arena stands out for its unprecedented capacity, with up to 40,000 seats for concerts and 30,000 seats for matches. This capacity makes it the largest indoor performance venue in Europe. The site also includes 31,000 sq.m of office space occupied by the Hauts-de-Seine department, shops including the Racing 92 club shop, a brasserie and a gourmet restaurant.

Its exterior façade, covered with 600 dynamic giant aluminium and glass scales, offers an infinite range of bright and colourful atmospheres.

A high-tech structure that sets the tone for the spectacular

Paris La Défense Arena - interior view - 2018 © CD92 - Olivier Ravoire

Since its opening, Paris La Défense Arena has become the international reference for the biggest shows. In 2 years, the arena has welcomed more than 1.5 million spectators. It promises an unrivalled immersive experience thanks to its polymorphous and modular features: retractable bleachers extending over 13 km, 44 projectors, a giant 2,600 square metre screen, 266 LED projectors, free high-definition wifi service, refreshment stands, boxes, sponsored shows... The large arena offers ultra-modern technological innovations for artists, sportsmen and women or large companies, an exceptional acoustic experience and a singular show to the rhythm of the events.

Paris La Défense, name of the arena

Already the developer of Europe's largest business district, Paris La Défense has given its name to the Arena, thereby increasing its reputation and attractiveness both in Greater Paris and internationally. This naming system establishes a clear link between the hall's polymorphous structure and the identity of Paris La Défense, making the area an emblematic leisure, culture and entertainment destination.

Ideal accessibility for all types of public

Paris La Défense Arena - exterior night view - 2018 © CD92 - Olivier Ravoire

Paris La Défense Arena is located just a few minutes from the historic centre of Paris thanks to an exceptional transport network: RER, metro, trains, trams, buses (16 lines) and a bus terminal for special transport. For spectators coming by public transport, the journey between the business district and the arena is fast via a wide pedestrian promenade.

In addition, 15,000 parking spaces are available near the venue.


In figures

  • 40,000 : The number of spectators that the Paris La Défense Arena can accommodate in concert mode
  • 592 : The number of giant aluminium and glass scales that cover the Arena, lit by 3000 LED strips
  • 3500 tonnes of steel were needed to build the Arena (half the size of the Eiffel Tower)