Wembley Stadium is inaugurated as Empire Stadium
April 28th, 1923
April 28th, 1923
Wembley Stadium is inaugurated as Empire Stadium
Wembley Stadium, initially named Empire Stadium, opened its doors for the first time on April 28, 1923. Designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, this iconic venue was officially launched with the FA Cup Final between Bolton Wanderers and West Ham United. The event drew an enormous crowd, reportedly exceeding 300,000 people, overwhelming the stadium's capacity and creating a unique atmosphere that became a milestone in sporting history. The match became known for the infamous 'White Horse Final,' with mounted police on horseback helping to manage the large numbers of spectators.
Initially named Empire Stadium, later Wembley
Opened for the FA Cup Final in 1923
Attracted over 300,000 spectators
Famed for the 'White Horse Final' crowd control
What Happened?
Wembley Stadium, originally known as the Empire Stadium, stands as a symbol of both sporting achievement and architectural brilliance. Located in Wembley, London, the president of the FA at the time, Sir John Gordon, first envisioned the stadium himself as part of the British Empire Exhibition intended to showcase British success to the global audience. Designed by the renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, the stadium featured a distinctive design that included a remarkable steel and concrete structure large enough to accommodate thousands of spectators. The grand opening on April 28, 1923, coincided with the FA Cup Final, earmarking its significance in England’s sporting culture.
The inaugural match between Bolton Wanderers and West Ham United is etched in football lore not merely because of the match itself but due to the unprecedented crowd. Estimates indicate that over 300,000 fans attended the event, far surpassing the stadium's official capacity of 127,000. The overwhelming number of attendees turned into a security challenge, leading to legendary scenes of mounted police, referred to as the 'White Horse,' helping to manage the crowd and maintain order. This historic final ended with Bolton Wanderers defeating West Ham 2-0, sealing its place in the annals of sports history.
The symbolism and cultural significance of Wembley elevated it not just as a sporting venue but as a national landmark. Over the years, it has hosted an array of events ranging from football matches to concerts and ceremonies, cementing its reputation as a premier entertainment venue. The distinctive arch added during the 2007 redevelopment now represents the modern era of Wembley as much as past glories did.
Why Does it Matter?
Wembley Stadium's opening marked a turning point in the hosting of major sporting events in the UK, defining standards for crowd management and venue design. Its legacy as a cultural hub continues to attract millions, both as a sports ground and an entertainment venue, inspiring the creation of similar multi-purpose stadiums worldwide.
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