AS Cannes vs Olympique Lillois quarter-final match 1919-1920 Coupe de France football

Stade Pierre De Coubertin

Stade Pierre De Coubertin Cannes: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Stade Pierre De Coubertin is a renowned sports and cultural landmark in Cannes, France. Nestled in the La Bocca district, this stadium is synonymous with the city’s sporting heritage, community pride, and vibrant event calendar. Named after Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games, it has evolved from a multi-sport facility into the dedicated home of AS Cannes football club. Whether you’re a football enthusiast, a history lover, or a visitor seeking to explore Cannes’ rich cultural landscape, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the stadium’s history, practical visitor information, and the best nearby attractions for a memorable experience.

Historical Overview
Visiting Stade Pierre De Coubertin
Modernization and Recent Renovations
Cultural and Sporting Significance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visitor Tips
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development

Stade Pierre De Coubertin was conceived in the late 1960s as a multi-sport venue, primarily serving athletics and rugby. Located in the La Bocca district, it was initially constructed to meet Cannes’ growing need for modern sporting facilities. The stadium opened in 1969, coinciding with the foundation of Athlétic Club de Cannes, and featured a six-lane athletics track, later updated to a tartan surface in the early 1970s (AS Cannes official site; Wikipédia).

Transition to Football

By the mid-1970s, the stadium underwent a significant shift, becoming the home ground for AS Cannes, a club with a long tradition in French football. The coexistence of athletics and football ended in 1986 when the athletics club moved to Stade Maurice-Chevalier, allowing for the construction of new stands and the stadium’s transformation into a dedicated football venue (AS Cannes official site; Wikipédia).

Architectural Evolution and Capacity

The stadium’s architecture evolved with its sporting role. A west stand with nearly 3,000 seats was inaugurated in 1972. The early 2000s saw temporary stands increase capacity to 16,000, but safety measures later reduced this to around 10,000. The east stand, opened in 2001 and renamed Tribune Jean Varraud in 2013, further enhanced spectator comfort. Temporary seating continues to be used for major events (Nice-Matin; StadiumDB).

Notable Events and Attendances

Stade Pierre De Coubertin has hosted numerous historic football matches, including a record attendance of 17,401 for a 1993 fixture between AS Cannes and Olympique de Marseille (World of Stadiums). The stadium witnessed the professional debut of Zinédine Zidane and has been the backdrop for rugby matches, athletics competitions, and community events such as the 1999 jubilee for Bruno Bellone (Ville de Cannes).

Visiting Stade Pierre De Coubertin

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Match Days: Gates typically open 1–2 hours before kickoff. For AS Cannes matches and special events, check the AS Cannes official website for the latest information.
Tickets: Purchase online via the official AS Cannes ticket portal, at the stadium box office on event days, or through authorized resellers. Prices vary by match and seating area.

Accessibility

The stadium is fully accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, offering dedicated seating, accessible entrances, and restroom facilities. For special requirements, contact the club in advance at [email protected] (Ville de Cannes).

Getting There

Address: Avenue Pierre Poési, BP 179, 06 152 Cannes La Bocca CEDEX.
Public Transport: Local bus routes connect the city center to La Bocca. The Cannes La Bocca train station is within walking distance.
Car: Free and paid parking is available near the stadium; Avenue Pierre de Coubertin may close on major match days for pedestrian safety.
Cycling/Walking: The area is pedestrian-friendly and accessible by bike.

Facilities and Services

Seating: Approximately 10,000 seats, with covered and open-air stands.
Amenities: Food and beverage kiosks, merchandise shops, family-friendly seating, and baby-changing facilities.
Security: Standard security checks apply. Smoking is restricted to designated areas.

Nearby Attractions

Le Suquet (Old Town): Historic quarter with panoramic city views.
Palais des Festivals: Venue for the Cannes Film Festival.
Promenade de la Croisette: Iconic boulevard with luxury hotels and boutiques.
Plages du Midi: Popular beaches within a 15-minute walk.
Marché Forville: Covered market for regional delicacies.
Parc Robinson: Urban park with playgrounds.
Cineum Cannes: Modern cinema complex.
Palais des Victoires: Venue for indoor sports and events (Cannes.com).

Guided Tours and Special Events

Although not regularly scheduled, guided tours and behind-the-scenes visits are occasionally offered, especially during special events. Announcements are made via the AS Cannes website and official social media channels.

Modernization and Recent Renovations

Since 2017, Stade Pierre De Coubertin has undergone extensive modernization, including the refurbishment of stands, upgraded VIP areas, and enhanced spectator facilities. The installation of a hybrid natural grass pitch in 2023 reflects a commitment to sustainability and high-quality playing conditions, utilizing advanced irrigation and drainage systems (Nice-Matin; Cannes Tendances).

With the recent acquisition of AS Cannes by The Friedkin Group, further improvements are anticipated, reinforcing the stadium’s role as a premier venue in the region (Ville de Cannes).

Cultural and Sporting Significance

Stade Pierre De Coubertin is more than a football stadium; it is a symbol of Cannes’ dedication to sporting excellence and community cohesion. As the home of AS Cannes, the venue has fostered the development of legendary players—most notably Zinédine Zidane—and continues to host events that unite fans, families, and visitors. The stadium’s presence is woven into the city’s cultural identity, serving as a hub for both sporting competitions and community celebrations (Wikipedia; France Bleu).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Stade Pierre De Coubertin?
A: Gates open 1–2 hours before kickoff on match days. For non-event visits, check the AS Cannes website or contact the club.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online, at the stadium box office, or through authorized resellers. For high-demand events, book in advance.

Q: Is the stadium accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes. The stadium provides accessible seating, entrances, and restrooms. Contact [email protected] for assistance.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, especially during special events. Check announcements via the club’s website and social media.

Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: Le Suquet, Palais des Festivals, Promenade de la Croisette, Plages du Midi, and Marché Forville are all within easy reach.

Visitor Tips

Arrive Early: Enjoy the pre-match atmosphere and avoid queues.
Use Public Transport: On busy days, public transit or rideshares help avoid parking challenges.
Travel Light: Bring essentials only, as security checks are thorough.
Check Schedules: Visit the AS Cannes website for up-to-date event calendars and visitor information.
Explore Local Culture: Make the most of your visit by exploring historic sites and local markets in the Cannes-La Bocca district.

Conclusion

Stade Pierre De Coubertin stands as a testament to Cannes’ sporting legacy, community spirit, and continuous evolution. Its blend of historical significance, modern amenities, and proximity to Cannes’ top attractions makes it an essential stop for sports fans and cultural explorers alike. For the latest updates, tickets, and event information, consult the AS Cannes official website and Cannes tourism resources. Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for real-time updates, personalized tips, and exclusive offers.