Workers' Stadium Torn Down to Make Way for Major Renovation

Beijingers walking past the Workers’ Stadium this week may have noticed some major changes underway. Appearing completely crumbled, the enormous arena has begun a major process of reconstruction. 

But don’t hold your breath: Gongti’s final form won’t grace us any sooner than 2023, as it is set to host the opening ceremony and final of the AFC Asian Cup that same year, as reported by China Daily.

Exact details about the construction remain scarce, though we’re expecting a major glow-up in three years time. The stadium has taken several nightclub casualties down with it, most notably techno haven Lantern – for now, at least.

Originally built in 1959 to mark the PRC’s 10th anniversary, Workers’ Stadium has hosted major sporting events during the 2008 Beijing Olympics and is home to Beijing Guo’an football matches, which have temporarily been relocated to the National Stadium.

[Images via @土坡上的李/Weibo]