Real Betis begins Estadio Benito Villamarín redevelopment
Real Betis has officially started the first phase of redevelopment works at the Estadio Benito Villamarín, marking the beginning of a major modernisation project for the venue.
The initial phase focuses on excavation works and the construction of underground levels, supported by diaphragm walls to stabilise the structure. At the same time, the club and construction partner Acciona are working on optimising the overall timeline and cost of the project.
Subsequent phases will include the construction of a new Preferencia stand and upgrades to the existing Gol Norte, Fondo and Gol Sur sections. The redevelopment will also introduce a new commercial building, underground parking facilities, and the installation of a full roof and vertical façade across the entire stadium.
Designed by Gensler and Rafael de la-Hoz, the project aims to transform the stadium into a year-round destination, with a strong focus on hospitality, fan comfort and commercial activity. While overall capacity will remain at around 60,700 seats, the number of VIP places is set to increase significantly from 1,200 to approximately 3,700.
The redevelopment is expected to cost around €262.3m and be completed by May 2028. During the construction period, Real Betis will temporarily relocate to Estadio La Cartuja.
Everton to host Upper Deck Golf experience at new stadium
Everton FC will transform the Hill Dickinson Stadium into an interactive golf venue this summer, hosting Upper Deck Golf alongside The Open Championship at nearby Royal Birkdale.
From 16–19 July, tee boxes will be installed high in the stands, allowing participants to hit approach shots onto custom greens placed on the pitch. The experience will run from 7am to 9pm, offering a mix of golf challenges, music, food and drinks, alongside live coverage of The Open throughout the stadium.
The event will include standard and premium experiences, with VIP packages offering additional challenges and hospitality. Clubs will be provided on-site, and priority access to bookings will be given to season ticket holders and members ahead of general sale.
It marks the first time Upper Deck Golf has been staged at a stadium outside North America and underlines Everton’s ambition to position the venue as a year-round destination, capable of hosting a wide range of events beyond football.
Newcastle United explores options for future stadium development
Newcastle United is continuing to evaluate its long-term stadium strategy, with a second city-centre site now under consideration alongside the previously identified Leazes Park location next to St James’ Park.
The club is currently assessing whether to redevelop its existing stadium or pursue a new-build project. St James’ Park, with a capacity of around 52,300, could potentially be expanded to between 60,000 and 62,000, although structural limitations restrict further growth. A new stadium, by contrast, could deliver a capacity of 65,000 to 70,000, offering greater long-term flexibility.
Leazes Park has long been viewed as the preferred option, but the project faces a number of challenges, including environmental considerations related to local wildlife and planning constraints. As a result, the club is now actively reviewing alternative locations within the city centre.
A key meeting involving the club’s ownership group, the Public Investment Fund, and senior executives is expected later this month to assess progress and help determine the preferred direction.
Alongside these discussions, Newcastle has also taken steps to strengthen its financial position, recently reporting a return to profit following internal transactions involving stadium-related assets.
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2026/04/17/newcastle-identifies-second-site-for-new-stadium
QPR expands rail seating at Loftus Road
Queens Park Rangers has confirmed further expansion of rail seating at Loftus Road, with new installations set to be introduced in Y Block of the Stanley Bowles Stand ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The decision follows a period of positive consultation with supporters, reflecting growing demand for safe standing areas that enhance atmosphere while maintaining safety standards. The new rail seating will be installed across multiple rows in Y Block, while selected sections will remain traditional seating to preserve a balanced offering for fans.
While similar consultations in other areas of the stadium also received strong support, the club has opted for a phased rollout. Financial considerations, particularly the high upfront investment required, mean expansion will be delivered gradually, with future phases dependent on performance and payback periods.
Rail seating continues to gain momentum across English football following regulatory changes allowing licensed standing areas. For QPR, the expansion is part of a broader effort to improve matchday experience, increase flexibility within the stadium, and respond directly to supporter feedback.
Club leadership has highlighted the impact of rail seating on atmosphere, with the initiative expected to attract both existing supporters and fans seeking a more dynamic matchday environment. The move also aligns with wider industry trends, where clubs are increasingly integrating safe standing solutions as part of modern stadium operations.
https://www.mondostadia.com/qpr-to-install-more-rail-seating-ahead-of-2026-27-season
Eden Gardens redevelopment to expand capacity and hospitality
Populous has unveiled new designs for the redevelopment of Eden Gardens, aiming to transform the historic venue into a modern, multi-use stadium.
The project will increase capacity from 68,000 to around 85,000, while significantly expanding hospitality and premium offerings. Plans include a new sky deck overlooking the Hooghly River, additional corporate boxes and lounges, and a 30% increase in hospitality seating.
Beyond matchdays, the redevelopment introduces 41,000 sq ft of exclusive hospitality space and 44,000 sq ft of non-event facilities, alongside fan zones, a museum, digital engagement areas and a members’ club. The aim is to position Eden Gardens as a year-round destination, combining sport, entertainment and heritage.
Despite design challenges linked to the stadium’s inner-city location and historic status, the project focuses on enhancing fan experience while preserving the venue’s legacy, reinforcing Eden Gardens’ status as one of the world’s most iconic cricket venues.
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2026/04/15/populous-releases-designs-of-new-look-eden-gardens
Croke Park opens search for new Pitch Manager
Gaelic Athletic Association is recruiting a Pitch Manager for Croke Park, one of Europe’s leading multi-purpose stadiums.
The role will be central to the maintenance, performance and development of the stadium pitch, as well as supporting operations at the National Games & Development Centre and the Killougher Turf Farm. Responsibilities include managing natural and hybrid turf systems, ensuring top-level pitch presentation, overseeing budgets and leading a team of grounds staff.
The successful candidate will also work closely with specialist consultants, implement modern pitch technologies, and contribute to sustainability and environmental initiatives across the venue’s operations.
With over 1.5 million visitors annually, Croke Park represents a high-performance environment where pitch quality and operational excellence are critical to delivering international-standard events.
Applications are open until 17 April 2026.
More info here: https://www.jobs.ie/job/pitch-manager/gaa-job107006456
