The inauguration of Zinedine Zidane's Z5 sports complex took place yesterday, and our Startin' team was honored to attend. Discover the Z5 project in Aix-en-Provence's Les Milles district: a detailed overview, address, hours, and key moments from the event where Zidane engaged warmly with guests.
Invited among hundreds of attendees, our team navigated the impressive gray structures in search of Zidane. The conference unfolded on one of the seven covered futsal pitches, specially prepared for the occasion. The pristine synthetic turf and engaging speeches captivated everyone. There stood the football legend—1.85m of humility, kindness, and inspiration—seated with brothers Noureddine and Farid, plus friend Robert Sichi.
Speeches highlighted the vision: architect Christophe Gulizzi showcased light-shadow effects; Aix-en-Provence Deputy Mayor Maryse Joissains expressed pride in hosting Z5. Zidane emphasized expanding Z complexes nationwide for neighborhood kids to access quality pitches. For him, Z5 is a personal triumph, family endeavor, and human adventure. Emotion peaked as "Zizou," proud to be "the little brother," teared up mid-speech before guests like Akhenaton, Joel Cantona, Myriam Lamare, and Algeria's consul.
True to form, Zidane skipped the ribbon-cutting, opting to keep football central. He scored penalties into a goal framed by a giant logo—twice, despite suit and dress shoes—inaugurating his sports center with flair.
Situated in Les Milles near a main road on a vast former vacant lot, Zidane's Z5 dominates with a 10-meter-high central gray building, echoing his commanding pitch presence. A massive Z5 logo is etched into the facade, flanked by three indoor futsal pitches on each side, their parallel lines creating visual harmony.
Inside reveals a cohesive, sober, design-driven space: Zidane's trophies, exhibition of Predator boots, and match balls. The basement houses an official Adidas shop; outdoors, a restaurant, bar, and covered/uncovered terraces. Fully compliant with BBC (Low Consumption Building) and BDM (European Sustainable Building) standards, it's eco-friendly and among France's "100 exemplary low-energy buildings."
Florian led our comprehensive guided tour upstairs to an elite-equipped fitness center prioritizing premium machines over space. Divided into cardio, weight training, and fitness zones, it emphasizes quality for a healthy, enjoyable experience. Treadmills feature touchscreens for TV, phone connectivity, music, and adjustments.
Designer changing rooms include hairdryers, showers, toilets, mirrors, and lockers. Two large swimming pools with aquagym gear benefit from exceptional natural light via the iconic Z5 logo facade, underscoring Zidane's signature. The relaxation zone—hammam, sauna, lounge, massage room—completes the premium setup.
Featuring synthetic turf and protective netting, the complex offers three indoor pitches per side of the main building, plus a mini-pitch for young children (ages 5-6). We witnessed high-level afternoon matches:
On 20x30 meter pitches, 5-player teams leverage walls for rebounds and fast play. Competition player Saïd Nasser shared: "Futsal demands quick thinking for faster action—far more engaging." He called playing at Z5 an honor, especially meeting Zidane, affirming the legend's commitment to youth development.
Spot Zidane by the media swarm. Securing an autograph amid fans, security, and photographers was challenging—but achieved. The world-class player remained poised, granting every photo, chatting freely, and dazzling with stepovers, roulettes, and acrobatics. A true icon inspiring generations.
Gratitude to Brice (Adidas) for the invitation; Florian for the tour and his team; Saïd and teammates for their time. Special nods to our photographer and Zidane—without whom, this day wouldn't have happened. We'll return to test Z5 fully and update you.
205, avenue du 12 Juillet
Aix en Provence business hub
13290 Les Milles
04.42.20.55.55
Daily, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Off-peak: €5
Peak: €7.5
