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Key figures

Origin and history

The Accor Arena, originally called Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy (POPB), is a modular venue designed to host sporting events, concerts and shows. Inaugurated on 3 February 1984 by Jacques Chirac, then Mayor of Paris, it is part of the urban development project of the Bercy district, marked by the decommissioning of the former wine warehouses in the 20th century. Its pyramidal structure, covered with lawns, and its interior without carrying posts (thanks to a metal frame imagined by Jean Prouvé) make it a unique place. The room can accommodate up to 20,300 spectators in 360° configuration, with a central stage.

The POPB site is based on a historical plot, once occupied by a 17th century hotel, and then by wine warehouses (above Parisian taxes before the annexation of Bercy in 1859). In the 19th century, Montreuil Creek, canalized and covered around 1850, crossed these lands. The architectural project, which won a competition in 1979, was led by the Andrault-Parat team, Prouvé, Guvan, with works from 1981 to 1983. The hall is operated by a mixed company (52% owned by the Paris City Hall, 48% by AEG), and its current name is the result of a partnership with the Accor Group since 2015.

The six days of Paris (cyclism) from its opening, tennis tournaments (Masters of Paris-Bercy), judo (Grand Slam), and mythical concerts (Queen 1984, Johnny Hallyday 95 times, Dorothy 57 times) were held in France. She was also the record setting, such as the 12 consecutive performances of Mylène Farmer in 2006 or the 10 evenings of Dire Straits in 1991-1992. In 2024, it hosted the Olympic Games artistic gymnastics, trampoline and basketball events under the temporary name Bercy Arena.

The POPB underwent a major renovation between 2014 and 2015, increasing from 17,000 to 20,300 places and upgrading its infrastructure. The change of name in AccorHotels Arena (2015), followed by Accor Arena (2020), sparked controversy, criticized for a commodification of public heritage. In 2021, SAE POPB (gestiónnaire) bought the Bataclan, and in 2023, the basement housed Phantom, a 2000-seat night hall. The planade in front of the Arena was renamed Johnny-Hallyday esplanade in 2021.

Architecturally, the Arena is distinguished by its 6 400 m2 metal frame (supported by four carrying drums), allowing an exceptional modularity: integrated rink (Sonja-Henie), various scenographic configurations (central stage or at the end of the room), and absence of visual obstacles. Its system of monorails and conveyors, a world first, facilitates rapid transformations. Close to the François-Mitterrand Library and Bercy Park, it enjoys a strategic location (metro, RER, peripheral).

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