The highly anticipated opening of the Kunshan Olympic Sports Center marked a significant moment in Chinese sports history. On February 7, the stadium officially inaugurated its doors during the opening match of the Chinese FA Super Cup, drawing an impressive crowd of more than 30,000 enthusiastic fans. This local derby featured the fierce competition between Shanghai Shenhua and Shanghai Port, where Shanghai Shenhua staged a remarkable comeback, clinching victory with two goals in the final three minutes of the match. This stunning finish not only highlighted the intense rivalry but also showcased the stadium's capacity to host thrilling and memorable sporting events.

Designed by the esteemed architectural firm von Gerkan, Marg and Partners (gmp), in collaboration with the Architectural Design and Research Institute of Tongji University, the Kunshan Olympic Sports Center is a state-of-the-art facility boasting a seating capacity of 45,000. This stadium meets the stringent FIFA Category 1 standards, positioning it as a premier venue for major international football competitions. Its design reflects a modern aesthetic, featuring an oval shape that is both functional and visually striking.

The structural integrity of the stadium is achieved through 36 robust double frames, constructed from in-situ concrete, and supported by an intricate network of lattice steel trusses. These design elements were developed in partnership with the renowned engineering firm Schleich Bergmann (sbp). Adding to the stadium's allure, translucent membranes are stretched between the double frames, allowing natural light to flood the interior while also serving as a dual-purpose facade and roof covering. Notably, each membrane element covers approximately 600 square meters, making it the largest single-layer membrane structure in all of China.

To enhance spectator experience and ensure efficient crowd management, the stadium incorporates an external bridge system that facilitates swift and seamless access. Wide staircases guide fans to a surrounding podium, and a total of 48 bridges connect spectators to both the upper and lower seating tiers. The efficiency of this crowd management system was put to the test during the opening match, where it performed exceptionally well, ensuring that fans could enter and exit the venue with minimal delays.

Beyond its role as a premier sports venue, the Kunshan Olympic Sports Center is designed to serve as a multifunctional hub for sports, culture, and recreation. It is thoughtfully integrated into an existing park, transforming the local landscape into a vibrant recreational area where residents can gather and partake in various activities. In partnership with WES Landschafts Architektur, the surrounding site has been developed to include pathways that lead to additional sports and leisure facilities, shops, and restaurants. A picturesque watercourse meanders through the park, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the area and connecting the landscape to the stadium.

As Kunshan continues to grow as a center for sports and culture, the Olympic Sports Center is poised to play a pivotal role in fostering community engagement and elevating the sporting experience in the region.