National Stadium

The National Stadium is Sierra Leone's primary sports facility located in the Brookfields neighborhood of Freetown. The complex features a football pitch and athletics track with capacity for approximately 45,000 spectators.

Chinese engineers built the stadium in 1980 after Sierra Leone supported China's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. This major construction project was a gift that marked one of the country's first modern sports facilities.

This stadium serves as Sierra Leone's main venue for international football matches, track and field competitions, concerts, and presidential ceremonies. The space reflects the nation's passion for sports and its role in hosting events that bring communities together.

Access to the stadium is via the main entrance off Main Motor Road near the UE Building. Visiting during early morning or late afternoon hours helps avoid larger crowds at the gates.

The complex includes an abandoned Olympic swimming pool with diving platforms that no longer operates, a remnant from when the grounds hosted more diverse sporting activities. A separate recreational pool is used by local martial artists for training, creating an unexpected blend of athletics on the site.

Location: Freetown

Inception: 1980

Official opening: 1980

Capacity: 45000

GPS coordinates: 8.47956,-13.24906

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:02