30 Forgotten Stadiums Where the Crowd Never Came Back

5. The Decay of Beijing's Bird's Nest

Beijing's National Stadium, famously known as the Bird's Nest, captured global attention during the 2008 Olympics with its innovative design and grandeur. Built to embody China's rise on the world stage, the stadium hosted spectacular ceremonies and athletic feats. Yet, in the years following the Games, the Bird's Nest has struggled to find a sustainable purpose, often standing empty or hosting sporadic events. Its maintenance costs are exorbitant, and its future remains uncertain. The Bird's Nest's story reflects the broader challenges faced by Olympic venues worldwide, where the initial glory often gives way to a struggle for relevance and utility.