The 2012 stadium

Capacity 80,000
The centerpiece of London 2012 where the athletics events will take place is the brand new stadium that is the most sustainable ever built. During the Games the capacity is 80,000 although the upper tier of seating is temporary and can be removed afterwards, leaving a 25,000 seater stadium. The design includes an innovative wrap around the outside of the structure to give form to the lightweight frame. This addition also ensures London's stadium has a memorable identity. It hasn't been given a clever nickname just yet, but considering the city already has the Gherkin, the Shard and the Cheesegrater, it shouldn't be long coming.

The first time the stadium will be full of fans, fireworks, colour, dancing, music, fire, water, living statues and double decker buses will be the Opening Ceremony. On 27 July 2012 Oscar-winning film director Danny Boyle will bring the unique vision of the Games his team has crafted to unveil the XXXth Olympiad.