Real Madrid Revamp Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Built in 1947, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is one of the most iconic football stadiums in Spain and around the world. Home to Los Blancos, winners of 14 Champions League titles and 35 La Liga league titles; Real Madrid is one of the most recognisable football clubs in the world. The stadium has seen many legends grace its pitch from Alfredo Di Stefano, and Zinedine Zidane to Cristiano Ronaldo. The stadium hosted the 1982 FIFA World Cup final as well as hosted 4 European Cup/Champions League finals.
Old Santiago Bernabéu
Remodelled Santiago Bernabéu
Renovation Plans
The plans include increasing the stadium capacity from 81,000 to 84,000 and the ability to adapt the stadium to host several other events apart from football games. To enable flexibility, the stadium will have a retractable pitch that separates into six sections and moves beneath the surface to be stored. When stored underground, the pitch is stored in a temperature and light-controlled environment to ensure the highest-quality playing surface.
Video: Pitch Retraction at Santiago Bernabéu by Real Madrid
The stadium will also feature a retractable roof with two 800-tonne panels which can come over the pitch to create a large indoor arena. On the exterior, a steel façade encases the stadium with terraces on the top stands. A dedicated eSports area is included along with a major security overhaul and an upgraded museum.
Video: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium Works (September 2023)
It is thought that the cost of the renovations would be €1billion for the three and half years. Real Madrid is expecting the club’s revenue to increase from €150 million to €400 million per year. The regeneration of the stadium will bring the stadium into the modern era compete with new stadiums such as the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and improve in stadium fan experience. The adaptability of the stadium will allow the stadium to host a variety of big events such as concerts and major sporting competitions apart from football.