The stadium everyone suddenly loves
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Stadium with a packed crowd and, of course, a closed roof for AC. Photo: Etsuo Hara/Getty Images
Houston has been getting a global spotlight during the World Cup, and one thing has stood out to fans: its stadium.
Why it matters: Sometimes it takes an outsider's perspective to appreciate what we have.
- Known as NRG Stadium before the World Cup and as Houston Stadium during it, it'll be officially called Reliant Stadium once the tournament ends. Name notwithstanding, the stadium has been at the center of recent debates over its future, but many World Cup visitors have come away impressed.
Context: The stadium, which opened in 2002, received several upgrades ahead of the tournament, including new video boards, an upgraded sound system and improved sports lighting.
State of play: Online, people have been handing out praise — from the atmosphere in person to how it looks on TV, with some saying it's the most beautiful stadium.
- The Athletic ranked the stadium fifth among World Cup venues for match day experience, giving it high marks for its atmosphere, transportation, aesthetics and suitability for soccer.
- The stadium is one of three World Cup stadiums to have a retractable roof and air conditioning, and it's one of the few within the host city limits.
What they're saying: Fans have been raving to Axios about the air conditioning, location and even the TVs.
- Diego Tameirao from Boston, who has been following Brazil, said Houston's stadium is by far the best. "I like the location, the chemistry. I like the atmosphere."
- "Technology-wise, the screens are really big and good, speakers are really nice," says Hector Garcia of Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. His friend Alan Jurado of El Paso, chimed in, saying, "You definitely feel the difference as soon as you open the door, the AC hits you."
- Yuda Matsumura of Tokyo said the stadium was "very nice," even a "bit too cold."
Between the lines: Reliant Stadium has become the center of negotiations over the Texans' next lease. While the team is prioritizing renovations, saying maintenance is needed, it hasn't ruled out building a stadium.