Stadium MK
Stadium MK is a multi-purpose stadium located in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, England, with a seating capacity of 30,530.[1] Opened on 29 November 2007 in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II, it primarily serves as the home ground for EFL League Two club Milton Keynes Dons F.C.[1][2] The venue was developed by the Inter MK Group under the leadership of Pete Winkelman, who aimed to establish professional football in the area through the controversial relocation and rebranding of Wimbledon F.C. as MK Dons in 2004, a decision approved by the Football Association but widely criticized for undermining football's traditional roots and fan loyalties, prompting the phoenix club AFC Wimbledon.[3][4] Designed by architectural firm Populous, the stadium features four stands and integrates facilities such as a hotel and arena, supporting expansion plans that have increased its initial capacity from around 22,000.[5] Beyond football, Stadium MK has hosted significant events, including three pool stage matches at the 2015 Rugby World Cup—France versus Canada, Australia versus Wales, and Fiji versus Uruguay—the latter drawing a record attendance of 30,043 spectators.[6][7][8] It also accommodates concerts and other large-scale gatherings, contributing to its role as a key regional venue despite ongoing debates over the viability of its oversized design relative to average match attendances.[9][10]