RAFC Antwerp granted permit for new 8,700-seat stand
Royal Antwerp FC has received approval to construct a new “Stand 2” with 8,700 seats at Bosuil Stadium. The current stand, which has been outdated and structurally problematic for years, will be demolished and replaced with a modern structure. This project is part of the club’s ongoing efforts to modernise the stadium and enhance the matchday experience for supporters.
With the addition of the new stand, the total capacity of Bosuil Stadium will increase significantly, allowing Antwerp to welcome more fans and further support the club’s growth and ambitions. The approval of the permit marks an important milestone, as the plans have been in development for quite some time. This investment aims not only to improve the infrastructure but also to secure a strong future for Antwerp in the long run.
Although there were initial discussions about simply renovating the existing stand, the club has opted for a complete rebuild. While this requires a substantial investment, it ensures a long-term solution that meets modern standards of comfort, safety, and capacity. Antwerp will soon provide further details regarding the construction timeline and project start date. Supporters can look forward to a revamped stadium that will elevate their matchday experience.
Everton’s new stadium hosts 10,000 fans for first test event
Everton’s new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium has welcomed 10,000 fans for its first official test event, marking a major milestone in the club’s move to its new home. The event provided an opportunity to assess the facilities, crowd management, and overall matchday experience before the stadium fully opens for competitive fixtures. Fans were able to explore the stands, seating arrangements, and amenities while the club monitored operations to ensure everything runs smoothly on matchdays.
This test event is the first in a series of planned trials required to obtain the necessary safety certifications before the stadium can host full-capacity crowds. Everton aims to gradually increase attendance at these events to fine-tune logistics and fan services. The feedback gathered from supporters and stadium staff will be used to make final adjustments.
The new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium is set to replace Goodison Park as Everton’s home, providing modern facilities and an increased capacity to accommodate more fans. The state-of-the-art venue is a key part of the club’s long-term ambitions, offering improved hospitality options and a better matchday experience. While the farewell to Goodison Park will be emotional for many supporters, excitement is building as the club moves closer to officially opening its new home.
More test events will follow in the coming weeks, allowing Everton to ensure a seamless transition. The club is expected to announce further details on the official opening date soon, as anticipation continues to grow among fans and the wider football community.
Gensler reveals designs for Al Ahly’s new stadium
Global architecture firm Gensler has presented the designs for Al Ahly Sporting Club’s new stadium, which will have a seating capacity of 42,000. This venue is planned as Al Ahly’s first permanent home, replacing the club’s current use of the 74,000-capacity Cairo International Stadium. The stadium’s design allows for an expanded capacity of over 57,000 for concerts and other large-scale events.
Located near Sphinx International Airport, the stadium is designed to improve connectivity between Cairo and Alexandria. The structure features a distinctive asymmetric bowl supported by a large arch, with double-tiered stands on the west, north, and south sides to enhance the spectator experience.
The facility will include 72 VVIP private suites, 80 VIP luxury suites, and 73 premium suites, providing a variety of hospitality options. A sunken pitch design has been incorporated to comply with height restrictions due to the nearby airport while also utilizing natural cooling benefits to reduce ambient temperatures.
In addition to the stadium, the Al Ahly Club Sports City complex will include a university, hospital, and mosque, creating a multi-purpose development. Construction is set to begin soon, with the stadium expected to be completed by 2029.
Nürnberg scales down Max-Morlock-stadion redevelopment plans
The city of Nuremberg has decided to reduce the scale of its planned redevelopment of Max-Morlock-Stadion, home to 1. FC Nürnberg. Initial renovation plans were deemed too costly, prompting officials to seek a more affordable alternative. The project will now focus on essential upgrades rather than a complete overhaul.
Originally, the proposal included a modernized roof structure and expanded seating capacity, but financial constraints have led to a downsized approach. The new plan prioritises structural safety, fan comfort, and improved accessibility while maintaining the stadium’s historic character.
Max-Morlock-Stadion, which opened in 1928, requires significant renovations to meet modern standards, particularly regarding infrastructure and spectator facilities. However, local authorities must balance budget limitations with the club’s and fans’ expectations.
The revised project is expected to move forward in phases, allowing work to be completed without major disruptions to matchdays. While the stadium may not receive the large-scale transformation initially envisioned, the updates aim to ensure a functional and sustainable future for the venue. Further details on the adjusted renovation plan and timeline will be announced in the coming months.
Principality Stadium introduces first-ever accessible fan guides
Principality Stadium in Cardiff has become the first stadium in the world to launch fully accessible digital fan guides, designed to enhance the experience for disabled visitors. The initiative aims to improve inclusivity and accessibility, offering tailored guides for fans with visual, hearing, mobility, and sensory impairments. These guides provide detailed information on stadium facilities, entry points, seating arrangements, and accessible services.
Developed in collaboration with accessibility experts, the guides feature text, audio descriptions, British Sign Language (BSL) videos, and step-by-step navigation. Fans can access them via the stadium’s website, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable matchday experience. The move aligns with broader efforts to make sports venues more welcoming and inclusive for all spectators.
Principality Stadium’s initiative sets a new benchmark for accessibility in sports and entertainment venues. The stadium hopes this innovation will encourage other arenas to adopt similar measures. By prioritising accessibility, Principality Stadium is reinforcing its commitment to ensuring that all fans, regardless of their needs, can enjoy events without barriers.
Benghazi International Stadium officially opens with star-studded event
The newly built Benghazi International Stadium has officially opened, marking a major milestone for Libyan football. The grand opening featured a star-studded event, attended by high-profile football figures, government officials, and international guests. This new stadium is expected to play a key role in reviving football in Libya and attracting major sporting events to the country.
The stadium boasts modern facilities, a large seating capacity, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, making it one of the most advanced venues in North Africa. It is designed to host both domestic and international matches, providing a world-class experience for players and fans alike. The venue is also seen as a symbol of Libya’s recovery and progress, following years of instability that affected its sports sector.
Officials hope that Benghazi International Stadium will become a hub for football development, helping local clubs and the national team compete on a higher level. The stadium’s opening signals a new era for Libyan football, with the potential to host international competitions and strengthen the country’s sports industry. Further details on upcoming matches and events at the stadium are expected soon.
Getafe confirms start date for Coliseum Alfonso Pérez renovation
Getafe CF has announced that renovation work on Coliseum Alfonso Pérez will begin in June 2025. The project, often referred to as “Little Bernabéu”, aims to modernise the stadium and enhance infrastructure, spectator comfort, and commercial facilities. Inspired by recent upgrades at Santiago Bernabéu, the redevelopment will introduce new roofing, improved seating areas, and enhanced hospitality sections.
The renovations are scheduled to take place during the summer break to minimise disruption to the club’s matches. The project will also focus on accessibility improvements and sustainability measures, aligning with modern stadium standards. The goal is to provide a more functional and fan-friendly venue while ensuring long-term operational efficiency.
Getafe CF’s planned upgrades reflect its continued commitment to improving the matchday experience. Further details regarding the timeline and design elements are expected to be shared as construction progresses.
Seismic safety challenges for Stadio Artemio Franchi
Authorities are assessing Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence to address potential seismic safety concerns. Built in 1931 and designed by Pier Luigi Nervi, the stadium is a protected architectural landmark, which makes structural modifications subject to strict regulations. Recent evaluations have indicated the need for reinforcement measures to ensure the venue meets modern earthquake safety standards.
Officials are exploring possible upgrades that would enhance the stadium’s resilience while maintaining its historical and architectural integrity. Given the structure’s heritage status, any intervention must balance preservation with safety improvements. The challenge is to implement necessary reinforcements without altering the stadium’s iconic design.
Discussions about Stadio Franchi’s future have been ongoing, with Fiorentina previously considering alternative stadium options. However, current plans remain focused on upgrading the existing venue to maintain its long-term usability. Further evaluations and planning will determine the next steps for the seismic reinforcement process.
Ris-Orangis proposes site for PSG’s new stadium
The French town of Ris-Orangis has officially put forward a proposal to host Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) new stadium, as the club continues to explore alternatives to the Parc des Princes. The proposed site, located 20km south of Paris, covers 75 hectares and offers ample space for a modern football stadium alongside additional facilities.
PSG has been seeking a new home after disputes with the Paris City Council over the ownership and expansion of the Parc des Princes. The club had hoped to purchase the stadium, but negotiations stalled, prompting them to consider building a new, larger venue. Ris-Orangis officials argue that their location provides good transport links and development potential, making it a viable solution.
The project would involve significant infrastructure upgrades to accommodate fans and ensure easy access to the stadium. While PSG has not confirmed any decisions, Ris-Orangis is positioning itself as a strong contender. The club continues to evaluate multiple options, with further developments expected in the coming months.
https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2025/02/18/antwerp-krijgt-vergunning-voor-nieuwe-tribune-van-8-700-plaatsen/
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2025/02/18/everton-stadium-welcomes-10000-fans-for-first-test-event/
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2025/02/17/gensler-unveils-designs-for-monumental-al-ahly-stadium-project/
https://stadiumdb.com/news/2025/02/germany_nuremberg_must_slim_down_maxmorlock_stadion_redevelopment
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2025/02/20/principality-stadium-claims-first-with-accessible-fan-guides/
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2025/02/21/star-studded-turnout-as-benghazi-international-stadium-opens-up/
https://stadiumdb.com/news/2025/02/spain_getafe_already_has_a_start_date_for_work_on_their_little_bernabeu
https://stadiumdb.com/news/2025/02/italy_stadio_franchi_faces_antiseismic_challenge
https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2025/02/21/ris-orangis-sets-out-stall-for-psg-stadium/
