DW Stadium
Loire Dr, Robin Park, Wigan, England
About the Stadium:
Nestled in **Wigan**, **England**, the DW Stadium is a distinctive multi-purpose arena, serving as the revered home for both Wigan Athletic Football Club and Wigan Warriors Rugby League Club. Its modern design and impressive capacity stand as a testament to **Wigan**'s rich sporting heritage, replacing historical grounds with a state-of-the-art facility designed for the 21st century.
The Vision of a Modern Home
The stadium's inception in the late 1990s was driven by **Dave Whelan**, then owner of **Wigan Athletic** and the retail giant **JJB Sports**. Recognizing the need for a contemporary venue to match the ambitions of both clubs, construction began in 1998. It officially opened its doors in August 1999, initially known as the **JJB Stadium** due to its naming rights sponsor. This marked a significant departure from former homes; **Wigan Athletic** had played at the venerable **Springfield Park** for over six decades, while **Wigan Warriors**, a powerhouse in rugby league, departed their iconic **Central Park**.
Architecture and Sporting Milestones
An all-seater venue, the **DW Stadium** boasts a capacity of 25,133. Its four distinct stands – the **North Stand**, **East Stand**, **South Stand** (often housing away supporters), and the main **West Stand** with hospitality suites – ensure an engaging atmosphere, bringing fans close to the action. Over the years, the stadium has been the backdrop for remarkable sporting achievements. For **Wigan Athletic**, it witnessed their historic promotion to the **Premier League** in 2005 and the triumphant return following their unexpected FA Cup victory in 2013. **Wigan Warriors** have also celebrated numerous successes here, including significant **Super League** and Challenge Cup triumphs.
The stadium’s name officially changed to the **DW Stadium** in 2009, reflecting **Dave Whelan**'s continued influence and commitment to the clubs. It remains a powerful symbol of ambition and community pride in **Wigan**, continuing its legacy as a dual-purpose sporting heartland for two of **England**'s most passionate fan bases.
