The Hong Kong government hopes the new US$3.9 billion Kai Tak Sports Park will launch a new era of mega-entertainment spectacles and blockbuster sports events in the city.
The 20-hectare sports park will have a 50,000-seat main stadium with a retractable roof, an indoor sports centre with 10,000 seats and a public sports ground with 5,000 seats.
Hong Kong’s new landmark was launched on Saturday with an opening ceremony featuring celebrities from film, television, song and dance.
City leader John Lee said the facilities ushered in a "state-of-the-art new stage for Hong Kong".
The stadium – dubbed Pearl of the Orient – is expected to host the annual rugby Hong Kong Sevens later this month, and Coldplay concerts in April.
John Sharkey, CEO of Kai Tak Sports Park, said with the completion of the facility, “Hong Kong is better positioned to actively attract large-scale international events, drawing more visitors and investments, injecting new vitality into the development of sports and performing arts industries.”
Officials predict the new stadium will restore Hong Kong’s reputation for staging world-class entertainment. Among the sports park's partners are Cathay Pacific, Coca Cola and Marriott Bonvoy.