The role of the Stade de France will be to host France's major sporting events in three main areas : football rugby, athletics. The organisation in France of an event on a worldwide scale - the last Football World Cup of the century to be held in 1998 - made the construction of these major facilities possible. Designed by the architects Macary - Zublena - Regembal - Costantini and built in 3 years, it will be operated over a period of 27 years by the Consortium Bouygues - GTM - Entrepose - SGE, this will not be a classical stadium. 80 000 covered seats This stadium will enable France to host major sporting events and music concerts. Its 80 000 capacity (seated and covered) is equivalent to the population of Avignon. With a level of comfort superior to that of existing stadiums and equipped with facilities unequalled in France, it is set to be an exceptional arena hosting far from ordinary events. Adapted to companies and opened 365 days a year A total of 1 750 000 spectators are forecast every year attending forty or so events.35 sports events (30 football matches including 20 home club fixtures or, failing this, visiting clubs; 5 rugby matches) and 5 big concerts or cultural events. An exceptional venue, the Stade will also be able to play a role within the corporate relations strategies of companies. Companies organising PR events could entertain clients in superb surroundings, hiring a private box or organising conferences, trade exhibitions or seminars in the stadium's indoor facilities. Open every day of the year, the Stade de France will offer several shopping and restaurant areas. Regular events will also be held on the esplanade. Within one year of opening, the Stade de France is already figuring high on the list of tourist attractions, as a showcase for both French architecture and technology. On average the site receives 250 visitors a day, already fulfilling its future role as an exceptionally welcoming venue.