In a striking demonstration of national ambition, Vietnam took a decisive step toward positioning itself as a global sporting force on December 19.
At a ceremony in Hanoi that served as the command center for 234 simultaneous project launches nationwide, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Vingroup Chairman Pham Nhat Vuong officially broke ground on the Olympic Sports Urban Area. Valued at $35.2 billion, the vast development is anchored by the spectacular Trong Dong Stadium—a venue conceived not merely as a sports arena, but as a defining landmark of Vietnam’s “New Era” and a credible future host for the Asian Games and even the Olympic Games.
The stadium itself is a feat of cultural storytelling. Its distinctive circular form and tiered façade are inspired by the ancient Dong Son bronze drums, a powerful symbol of Vietnamese heritage. Flowing architectural lines echo the mythical Lac bird, evoking a nation rising confidently toward a high-tech future. Spanning 73.3 hectares in Thuong Phuc commune, southern Hanoi, the venue is designed to accommodate 135,000 spectators. Once completed, it would become the world’s second-largest stadium, surpassed only by North Korea’s 150,000-capacity Rungrado 1st of May Stadium. Speaking at the nationally televised event, Prime Minister Chinh described the project as a “breakthrough,” reflecting the intellect, aspirations, and growing stature of the Vietnamese people.
Technologically, Trong Dong Stadium is poised to set new global benchmarks. It will feature the world’s largest fully automated retractable roof, ensuring uninterrupted use regardless of weather conditions. A groundbreaking AI-driven pitch system will allow the entire playing surface to be replaced within just six to ten hours. Fans will experience a fully connected 5G environment, complete with smart seating, personalized services, and real-time security monitoring. Sustainability is central to the design, with natural ventilation systems and an extensive water recycling network projected to reduce clean water consumption by up to 70%.
Beyond the stadium, the project forms the core of a sprawling 9,171-hectare urban ecosystem planned to house more than 750,000 residents. Organized into four functional zones, the development will include a Global Aquatic Arena, elite athlete villages, and a transit-oriented hub seamlessly linked to central Hanoi via Ring Road 4 and high-speed rail. With the stadium targeted for completion in August 2028, the “Bronze Drum” stands not only as an architectural marvel, but as a bold declaration of Vietnam’s readiness to welcome the world.
Built to FIFA standards, Trong Dong Stadium is also poised to become Vietnam’s new national stadium, potentially replacing the aging My Dinh National Stadium in north-west Hanoi. With a capacity of just over 40,000, My Dinh could be repurposed as a primary home for Hanoi’s V.League clubs, particularly as Hang Day Stadium can no longer accommodate three teams simultaneously. From the 2025/26 season, The Cong–Viettel have already made My Dinh their home ground, while Hanoi FC and Cong An Ha Noi remain at Hang Day—signaling a shift that the arrival of Trong Dong Stadium may soon finalize.