The Kirklees Stadium, more commonly known as the John Smith's Stadium due to sponsorship, is a versatile venue located in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, England. Since its opening in 1994, it has served as the home ground for Huddersfield Town AFC and the Huddersfield Giants Rugby League Club, both of which relocated from Leeds Road.
The stadium has played host to several high-profile events, including matches for the Rugby League World Cup in 1995, 2000, 2013, and 2021, as well as the 1999 Rugby Union World Cup. Ownership is shared between the two clubs and Kirklees Council, while naming rights have changed hands over the years—from Alfred McAlpine to Galpharm International in 2004, and finally to John Smith's Brewery in 2012.
During its planning and construction phases, the stadium was referred to by its official name, the Kirklees Stadium. Designed by Populous and constructed by Alfred McAlpine, it won the prestigious RIBA Building of the Year Award in 1995.
Initially, only the Riverside Stand and Kilner Bank Stand were operational when the stadium opened. The total construction cost was an estimated £40 million.
Today, the John Smith's Stadium remains a prominent fixture in Huddersfield, hosting sporting events and concerts while standing as a testament to modern stadium design and multi-use functionality.