Neo Química Arena

Arena Corinthians was built as a modern home for one of Brazil's biggest clubs and as one of the venues of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The stadium quickly became a symbol of eastern São Paulo.

Construction and opening

The stadium was built in the Itaquera district for Corinthians, who own and operate it. With a capacity of 47,252 spectators, it ranks as the fifth-largest stadium in the top tier of the Brazilian League and the thirteenth-largest stadium in Brazil.

Major renovations

For the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the stadium had to meet a requirement of at least 65,000 seats for the tournament's opening match. Temporary seats were therefore added for the competition; they began to be removed shortly after its last World Cup match, returning the venue to its permanent capacity.

Notable moments

The stadium hosted six matches during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, including the opening match of the tournament on 12 June 2014. That inaugural game established the arena among Brazil's best-known football venues. In 2024 the stadium also made history beyond football when it hosted an NFL regular-season game between the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles.

The atmosphere at Arena Corinthians is among the most passionate in Brazil. The club Corinthians is renowned for its enormous and devoted fan base, which fills the 47,252-seat stadium and gives it a reputation as one of the loudest grounds in the country.

Fan culture

The supporters of Corinthians, known as the Fiel ("the faithful"), are among the most numerous and vocal in all of Brazil. Their choreographed displays, chants and drumming create an intense atmosphere at the Itaquerão. The club has deep roots in São Paulo's working-class tradition, giving its followers a strong identity and sense of belonging.

Big matches

The most significant occasion was the opening match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup on 12 June 2014, when the stadium found itself at the centre of global attention. It regularly stages league fixtures for Corinthians and city derbies against São Paulo rivals, when the ground comes alive with the energy of the Fiel and the club's colours.

Arena Corinthians (Neo Química Arena) is located in the Itaquera district in the east of São Paulo, Brazil's largest city. Thanks to its public transport connections, it is easily reachable from the centre and other parts of the metropolis.

How to get there

• Train / metro: Itaquera is connected to São Paulo's suburban rail and metro network, the most convenient way to reach the stadium from the city centre.
• Taxi / ride-sharing: Ride-hailing apps are widely used in São Paulo and offer a good alternative, especially after the match ends.
• Car: The stadium is accessible by city roads, but on matchdays expect heavy traffic across this sprawling metropolis.

Tickets and tours

Tickets for Corinthians matches are sold through the club's official channels and usually at the stadium before fixtures. For major events such as the 2024 NFL game, it is advisable to secure tickets in advance through the organisers.

Visitor tips

• When to arrive: Allow plenty of time before kick-off -- the atmosphere of the Fiel supporters begins long before the match.
• Transport: Favour the metro and train over driving; São Paulo is vast and traffic can be demanding on matchdays.
• Surroundings: Itaquera offers restaurants and local food stalls; try traditional Brazilian specialities such as pão de queijo or grilled meat.