Rach Chiec, on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
About this story
Populous announced its appointment to design the 70,000-seat National Stadium and 18,000-seat Arena within the Rach Chiec National Sports Complex. The stadium concept includes a fully retractable, acoustically rated roof and an open concourse. The roof and building form draw inspiration from nipa palms along nearby waterways. The broader masterplan includes an aquatic centre, multipurpose halls, training facilities, sports medicine services, a central park and riverscape. Populous identifies Senior Principal and APAC Director Andrew Tulen as leading the design team, with architects and designers from its Singapore, Brisbane and other Southeast Asian studios.
Status and timeline
Populous was appointed by developer Sun Group to design the stadium and arena after completing the precinct masterplan. Concepts are in progress; the complex broke ground earlier in 2026. Completion timeline not stated.
Design highlights
A retractable acoustically rated roof; an open concourse intended to shelter spectators while maintaining connections to the city; nipa-palm-inspired form; and a precinct plan organized around a central park and riverscape.
