Construction begins on Reykjavík’s new national arena

The first groundbreaking ceremony for Reykjavík’s new National Hall took place last week in Laugardalur, columnist Hildur Björnsdóttir writes for mbl.is. Young elite athletes from national teams and local clubs took part in the ceremony.

The arena is a joint project between Reykjavík City, the state and the sports movement. It is planned as a venue for sports, culture, education and other events, and is intended to strengthen Laugardalur as a centre for elite sport in Iceland.

The existing Laugardalshöll has served the country since 1965 but no longer meets international competition standards, Björnsdóttir writes. National teams have played there under exemptions, making a new venue necessary.

The National Hall is planned to cover about 17,700 square metres, with 8,600 seats and capacity for up to 12,000 people. It will be connected to Laugardalshöll and the athletics hall, with links to public transport. Concerts, exhibitions and other large events will also be held there.

The building is also intended for everyday use. Local sports clubs Þróttur and Ármann will have improved facilities, while children from nearby primary schools will use the arena for physical education.

Björnsdóttir says regular sports and leisure activities can help prevent problems among young people and support children of immigrant origin as they adapt to society. She also points to opportunities for private-sector partnerships in areas such as catering, event management and other services, to keep the arena active throughout the day.

Construction is now under way, with the arena expected to be ready in early 2030, ahead of the 2031 men’s handball world championship, which Iceland will host with Denmark and Norway.