Architect recalls: 'Beckenbauer was the main driver of the Alliana Arena'
In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the Allianz Arena, a renowned football sanctuary for FC Bayern Munich, reflects on its storied history. Architect Jacques Herzog reminisces about the stadium's inception, initially shared with 1860 Munich. In an interview with AZ, he discusses the conception and driving forces behind the iconic structure, particularly the significant role of Franz Beckenbauer.
Herzog, architect of the Allianz Arena, appreciates the creativity found in the nicknames given to buildings, whether they be ships, tires, or air mattresses. The importance of timelessness for stadiums like the Allianz Arena, rather than submitting to the whims of ever-changing fashion trends, is something he emphasizes. Fans and clubs value the continuity and connection that a stadium can offer.
The design of the Allianz Arena is based on the principle of illumination emerging from within and radiating outward. Herzog recounts how the inspiration for the stadium partially originated from the St. Jakob-Park in Basel, where they first experimented with the concept. The implementation in Munich was successful thanks to the stadium's freestanding structure, allowing for optimal utilization of the light energy. The form of the arena, reminiscent of a covered cooking pot, enables fans to be close to the action while still maintaining the intimacy of a personal home base.
Beckenbauer, catalyst for the project, played a crucial role in the realization of the Allianz Arena. Herzog recalls the excitement and pressure as construction commenced, praising Bayern Munich for their appreciation of architecture. Beckenbauer was consistently supportive and positive, contributing to the stadium's success. Despite early concerns and challenges during construction, Herzog and his team meticulously executed every detail to realize the vision of the Allianz Arena.
The façade of the arena, composed of 2,784 inflatable ETFE plastic panels, may initially seem complex, but Herzog explains that the variety of sizes and shapes of the panels enhance its robustness and aesthetic appeal. Although modern technology could simplify the design, the unique character of the façade remains a defining feature of the stadium. Herzog admits that challenges and opportunities for improvement always exist, but he takes pride in how the arena still looks like it did on its first day after 20 years.
Reflecting on the future of the Allianz Arena, Herzog respects its traditional significance and the stadium's importance to fans. While changes and renovations may occur, he believes it is essential to maintain the classical form and identity of the stadium. The needs of the fans will be vital in shaping the stadium's future, and Herzog is optimistic that the Allianz Arena will continue to be a place of passion and sports.
In 1997, Bayern Munich and 1860 Munich initiated the search for a modern stadium to replace the outdated Olympiastadion, which was unsuitable for football due to its running track and suboptimal fan experience[5]. By 2001, both clubs decided to construct a new stadium in the Munich suburb of Fröttmaning, launching an architectural competition involving some of the world’s top architects[5]. Construction began in March 2004, was completed by May 2005, and the stadium officially opened with a match hosted by 1860 Munich, followed by Bayern Munich the next day[5].
The Allianz Arena swiftly gained recognition as an architectural icon, noted for its innovative design and illuminated exterior, symbolizing the competing teams or special occasions[2][3]. The façade consists of inflated ETFE plastic panels that create the "shell" or "bubble" appearance, adding to its vibrancy and modernity[2][3].
Although Franz Beckenbauer is closely associated with both Bayern Munich and Munich football, his role was more symbolic and honorary rather than directly involved in the design or construction process[1]. In 2025, the address of the Allianz Arena was renamed to Franz-Beckenbauer-Platz 5 in tribute to his lifelong commitment to football and his strong ties to Munich[1]. This posthumous honor recognizes Beckenbauer as one of the city’s greatest athletes and Bayern icons; a giant jersey with his number 5 is displayed inside the stadium, with that number retired from use[1]. His impact on the stadium is commemorative rather than operational.
In summary, the Allianz Arena was envisioned in 1997 and built between 2004 and 2005 to replace the Olympiastadion, with the design selected through a high-profile architectural competition[5]. The stadium is famous for its illuminated, inflatable plastic exterior that contributes to its vibrancy and modernity[2][3]. Franz Beckenbauer, a Bayern Munich legend, was honored with the stadium’s address renaming and the retirement of his jersey number; however, he was not directly involved in the stadium's design or construction[1].
The architect of the Allianz Arena, Jacques Herzog, acknowledges the design's resemblance to various sports equipment, such as a covered cooking pot, recalling the influence of European football leagues and sports fervor that seeped into the stadium's concept. In the coming years, as the Allianz Arena continues to serve as a European football hub, it aims to preserve its classical form and identity while maintaining the admiration and connection of fans.
