Top 8 Loudest Stadiums in the World

· Mar 18 - 6 minutes read

There’s nothing quite like the sound of a crowd going wild. The loudest stadium in the world isn’t just about its size or history – it’s about the noise it can make. Picture a stadium where the noise hits you like a physical wave, where each cheer shakes the air. Whether it’s football, soccer, or even baseball, the crowds at these venues are so loud you’ll wonder how anyone can hear anything, let alone play the game.

From the loudest crowd ever to the stadiums that consistently hit the highest decibels, these places are a unique spectacle. Let’s dive into the loudest stadiums by decibels that turn noise into an art form.

Top 8 Loudest Stadiums in the World — Arrowhead Stadium | Jamie Squire/Getty Images/AFP

8 Loudest Stadiums Around the World

1. Arrowhead Stadium

Arrowhead Stadium has been the scene of some of the loudest NFL games ever, and in 2013, it set the loudest stadium record with 142.2 decibels during a Chiefs game. The stadium’s design amplifies every cheer, making the atmosphere so intense that it almost feels like you’re inside a speaker.

It’s no wonder Arrowhead consistently ranks among the most dangerous NFL stadiums – the noise can get so intense that it messes with your ability to concentrate on anything but the crowd. So, if you’re attending a game, bring earplugs. You’re going to need them.

2. Williams-Brice Stadium

Not many people realize just how loud Williams-Brice Stadium can get. Home to the University of South Carolina’s Gamecocks, with fans known for their rowdy energy, Williams-Brice is one of the most intense college football venues, regularly ranking as one of the loudest stadiums by decibels.

It may not be the largest college football stadium by seating capacity, but when you factor in the crowd’s passion, it’s easily one of the loudest sports stadiums in college football. If the chance ever arises to visit, prepare yourself for a soundwave of noise that’ll make you wish you had better hearing protection.

3. Lumen Field

Lumen Field, home to the Seattle Seahawks and their famous “12th Man,” the fans play just as significant a role as the team. In 2013, before the Chiefs, the Seattle Seahawks set the record for the loudest crowd ever at 137.6 decibels – and that’s no fluke. The volume here is so intense that it’s on par with a jet engine taking off right next to you.

Whether it’s a football game or a concert, the noise is nearly unbearable in the best way possible. Before asking, ‘How many NFL stadiums are there?’ check out Lumen Field and remember to bring headphones.

4. Camp Nou

If you think soccer crowds can’t get loud, check out Camp Nou. Home to FC Barcelona, this stadium is one of the biggest soccer stadiums in the world and one of the loudest. While it might not top the decibel charts, the crowd erupts with such intensity that you can practically feel it in your bones.

Even though Camp Nou doesn’t top the decibel charts like other stadiums, its massive size and dedicated fanbase make it one of the loudest sports stadiums on Earth. The noise will make your head spin if you’re ever in Madrid or Barcelona for a match.

5. Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Sliding in at number 5, Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta makes sure the noise is cranked up to 11. Sure, it’s not one of the oldest NFL stadiums, and its fellow historic stadiums like Lambeau Field or Soldier Field, but it’s got one thing those old-timers can’t touch: volume.

It doesn’t matter if it’s an Atlanta Falcons or Atlanta United FC game. Fans here don’t just cheer; they shout in harmony, and the place returns that sound tenfold. Mercedes-Benz knows how to make a racket that’ll rattle your bones.

6. FNB Stadium

Crossing to South Africa, FNB Stadium in Johannesburg is one of the loudest sports stadiums you’ll ever experience. With a capacity of just under 95,000, it’s not just the size that makes it loud; it’s the fans’ energy.

Whether it’s an international soccer match or a local derby, the atmosphere at FNB is unique. It’s one of the biggest soccer arenas in the world, and the sound that reverberates through the stands will leave you breathless.

7. Lucas Oil Stadium

Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis may not be the loudest in decibels, but it packs an impressive punch. Home to the Indianapolis Colts, this stadium is designed to trap sound and keep it bouncing off the walls, creating a loud and electric environment.

As one of the loudest stadiums by decibels, Lucas Oil Stadium can rival some of the more famous NFL venues, so if you’re a fan of noise, it’s worth the visit. The fans make sure to bring the intensity every time.

8. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Finally, the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid rounds out our list. While it may not break any records on the decibel scale, the energy here is something else. Home to Real Madrid, the stadium is electric, especially in those nail-biting moments when the crowd’s roar can be felt in your chest.

As a historic soccer powerhouse, Santiago Bernabéu might not always dominate the decibel charts. Still, its intensity and atmosphere keep it firmly in the mix when debating the loudest stadium in the world. And with venues like this, you can’t help but wonder: Who has the biggest stadiums: The Euros or Copa America?