The Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, Free State, is to have a major upgrade, with a third tier added, increasing its capacity to 45 000.

It will host five first-round matches and one second-round.

The Free State Stadium was substantially upgraded in advance of the 1995 Rugby World Cup, and the structure now stands as a fully functioning venue for international sports events.

Situated within the city's sports precinct, the Stadium is only a few minutes' drive from proposed Fifa and team hotels.

This dedicated sporting environment, which includes in close proximity independent stadiums for cricket, hockey, athletics and swimming, as well as several secondary fields, has been repeatedly proven ideal for the application of safety and security, the provision of ample parking and the presentation of excellent corporate hospitality.

Six thousand VIP guests can be entertained, some in uniquely converted luxury train carriages placed conveniently behind the main stand. In advance of the 2010 Fifa World Cup, a second tier will be added to the main grandstand on the western side of the ground, increasing the net capacity beyond the 40 000-mark required for venues to stage first and second round matches.

Additionally, new turnstiles will be erected, the floodlights will be upgraded, electronic scoreboards will be installed and the sound system will be revamped to the required standards. By then, the Free State Stadium will be ready to welcome both participating teams and visiting supporters to a world class venue.

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» Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein

The Final 10 Stadiums for the World Cup 2010 in South Africa:

- Green Point Stadium in Cape Town - Nelson Mandela Stadium in Port Elizabeth
- King Senzangakhona Stadium in Durban - Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein
- Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg - Soccer City in Johannesburg
- Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg - Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria
- Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit - Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane