CSKA Sofia partners with SIS Pitches for new stadium project
As CSKA Sofia progresses with its highly anticipated new stadium, the club has selected SIS Pitches as its official partner for the playing surface. The agreement covers the installation of a state-of-the-art hybrid pitch system, ensuring the new venue meets the highest UEFA and FIFA standards. Alongside that, it is also a new benchmark for stadiums in the Balkan region. Construction of the new 18,502-seat Bulgarian Army Stadium began in 2024 when the old venue was demolished following its closure the year before. With this partnership, CSKA Sofia highlights the importance of durability and high performance in a multi-use environment.
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2026/01/16/cska-sofia-partners-with-sis-pitches-for-new-stadium/
PSV Eindhoven upgrades Fan Experience with Ultra-Bright LED Technology
PSV Eindhoven has completed the installation of four new Philips Urban LED walls at the Philips Stadion. Replacing the outdated P16 displays, the new 6000 Series from PPDS features a 6.67-pixel pitch and a staggering 10,000 nits of brightness, doubling the previous capacity. This upgrade ensures that even in direct sunlight, the displays remain crystal clear, significantly improving the delivery of matchday content, statistics, and sponsor activations. The installment is part of plans to enhance viewing experiences for PSV fans.
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2026/01/15/tech-stack-valencia-cf-psv-and-more/
New Oklahoma City Stadium to Bring Fans “On the Pitch”
Plans for the new Oklahoma City stadium reveal a concept that brings fans closer to the action than ever before. Oklahoma City’s upcoming MAPS 4 Multipurpose Stadium will feature an “on the pitch” experience for fans behind the south goal. The experience is designed to be reminiscent of courtside seats in basketball arenas and will see supporters feet touching the playing surface. The design features seating arrangements that almost blend with the pitch perimeter, aiming to create an intimidating home atmosphere and a immersive fan experience. Construction on the stadium is set to begin this spring, with the venue scheduled to open in early 2028 at a cost of $121m (£90m/€104m). The 10,000-seat venue will serve as home for OKC Energy FC in Oklahoma City, which is due to play in the USL Championship.
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2026/01/16/new-okc-stadium-to-bring-fans-on-the-pitch/
Brighton & Hove Albion to Expand Safe Standing at the Amex
Brighton & Hove Albion has announced plans to increase the number of safe standing places to the lower rows of the North Stand at the Amex Stadium in September 2026. Following the successful implementation of rail seating in the away section and parts of the home stands, the club is responding to fan feedback by expanding the licensed standing areas. This move is designed to improve the matchday atmosphere while maintaining the highest safety standards. By adjusting their seating configuration, the Seagulls are optimizing the venue’s safety & security but also the fan experience.
https://www.mondostadia.com/brighton-and-hove-albion-to-add-more-safe-standing-places-at-amex/
Wrexham AFC to Integrate Rail Seating in Racecourse Ground Redevelopment
Not only Brighton & Hove Albion are focusing on rail seating. As part of the redevelopment of the historic Racecourse Ground, Wrexham AFC has confirmed that rail seating will be a central feature of the new Kop stand. Despite the arrival of rail seating, Wrexham supporters will not initially be able to use the area as a full standing section. The club has confirmed that fans will only be permitted to stand during goal celebrations and other significant match incidents. This restriction is due to the stadium’s current licensing status, which will remain as an all-seater venue until at least the end of the 2025/26 season.
The introduction of rail seating is the latest chapter in a broader redevelopment of Wrexham’s stadium. The club recently secured an £18 million grant to support further upgrades to the Racecourse Ground, adding to the significant public funding already invested since the club’s takeover by Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. The introduction of this safe standing technology is a strategic move to future-proof the stadium as the club continues its climb up in English football.
Schalke 04 Extends Veltins Naming Rights for 10 More Years
One of our members, FC Schalke 04 has secured a long-term partnership by extending its naming rights agreement with Veltins for another decade. The iconic Veltins-Arena name will remain until at least 2036. This 10-year extension highlights the strength of the relationship between the club and the brewery, one of the longest-running partnerships in German football. For stadium operators, it serves as a prime example of building sustainable, high-value commercial foundations.
