As anticipation builds ahead of the arrival of supporters in June to watch the best players on the planet competing for the coveted trophy, FIFA.com continues its series introducing fans to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ arenas. Today we present one of the two venues in Moscow this summer, Spartak Stadium.

Matches Spartak Stadium is hosting four group-stage fixtures and a Round of 16 match at Russia 2018.

Capacity During the tournament, Spartak Stadium will be able to seat up to 45,000 spectators.

Location One of two World Cup arenas in the Russian capital, Spartak Stadium is located in the northwest of Moscow, in the Tushino district. It was built in 2014 on the grounds of what used to be the Tushino Airfield. It takes approximately 40 minutes by metro to get from the city centre to the stadium.

Did you know? Until 2014, when Spartak inaugurated their new home ground, arguably Russia’s most popular and decorated team did not have their own stadium. For decades, they had to make do playing at different venues in Moscow. The Spartak Stadium is now the pride of the club’s fans: the front of the facility is made up of red-and-white diamonds, a nod to the team’s crest, and also recalls the armour worn by legendary gladiator Spartacus, after whom the club is named.

First matches Since 2014, Spartak have played all their home fixtures in the Russian Premier League, domestic cup, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League at this stadium. The Russian national team have also played a few friendlies and competitive matches here: against Lithuania, Moldova, Sweden and Austria, while four FIFA Confederations Cup matches were successfully held at the arena last year.

Legacy After Russia 2018, the stadium will continue to be Spartak’s home ground and an occasional destination for the Sbornaya. A new residential community is currently being built around the Spartak Stadium, which will continue to be developed after the tournament.