Olympic Stadiums That Now Serve Completely Different Purposes

11. Seoul’s Olympic Velodrome (1988) – Now a Gambling Facility

Original Purpose: Hosted track cycling events for the 1988 Seoul Olympics. New Purpose: A regulated bicycle-racing gambling venue.In an unexpected turn, Seoul’s Olympic Velodrome didn’t remain a venue for competitive cycling—it was converted into a legalized gambling facility for Keirin racing, a highly popular form of bicycle betting in South Korea. Rather than demolishing the velodrome, authorities saw an opportunity to preserve the track while repurposing it for commercial success. The stadium now attracts thousands of spectators who come to place bets on high-speed cycling races, creating an economic boost for the city. Despite its transformation into a gambling venue, the facility still hosts occasional cycling events, keeping a small connection to its Olympic past. While purists may argue that this isn’t the most "noble" repurposing, the venue has remained financially viable and well-maintained, proving that sometimes unexpected solutions ensure long-term survival.