24 Stadiums Around the World That Transform Into Completely Different Venues

By

Lisette Marie

November 4, 2025

17. Arena da Baixada – The Stadium That Turns Into an Esports Arena

Arena da Baixada. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Gustavo Paolo

Brazil’s Arena da Baixada, located in Curitiba, is famous for its role in football, but it became the first major esports stadium in the world when it hosted a Counter-Strike: Global Offensive tournament in 2017. The stadium underwent a high-tech transformation, featuring giant LED screens, a futuristic stage setup, and gaming-specific infrastructure. This shift from sports to digital competition showcases the growing intersection of traditional arenas and the esports industry.

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