Marvel Stadium named global venue of year at TheStadiumBusiness Awards

Its surface frustrates footy stars and fans often argue over whether its roof should be closed. But Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium has outshone international venues to win a global award.

Dockland’s Marvel Stadium has won a prestigious international award. Picture: David Caird

Marvel Stadium has ­become the first Australian venue to win a top international award, beating sports and entertainment precincts from around the globe.

The Docklands stadium, owned by the AFL, was named the Global Venue of the Year at TheStadiumBusiness Awards at a ceremony in ­Manchester, England.

The accolade, celebrating “the most innovative and ­leading sports facilities from around the world”, has been dominated by US stadiums for the past four years.

Superbowl venues Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco and MetLife Stadium in New Jersey are among the ­recent winners.

This year, the Melbourne venue was picked over finalists State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Etihad Stadium in Manchester and Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles.

Marvel Stadium has been named Global Venue of the Year. Picture: Jay Town

Marvel Stadium chief executive Michael Green said it was an honour for the ­stadium “to be recognised on the world stage”.

“We work hard to make sure that our fans have a great experience at the stadium and our talented team go above and beyond week in, week out to keep everything running smoothly,’’ he said

Marvel Stadium was recognised for its achievements last year, with more than 2 million fans passing through its turnstiles including the stadium’s 40 millionth visitor.

It hosted more than 55 events including AFL, A-League and Big Bash cricket matches as well as concerts by the likes of Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift. More than 400 weekday events were staged.

The Docklands stadium has drawn the ire of teams for the state of its pitch in the past 19 years, and TV viewers regularly complain about poor picture quality on sunny days when the roof is kept open.

Taylor Swift is among the stars who have performed at Marvel Stadium. Picture: Don Arnold

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But TheStadiumBusiness Awards founder Ian Nuttall said Marvel was world-class.

“The awards are about ­recognising leadership, innovation, and achievement in the operation and management of sports and entertainment ­facilities globally,’’ he said.

“Since 2010, we have given awards to some of the top ­venues from around the world, and this year is no exception.’’

The stadium, soon to ­undergo a $225 million redevelopment, signed a partnership with the Walt Disney Company last year which saw it rebranded as Marvel.

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