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FC Barcelona has announced a significant delay in their anticipated return to the iconic Camp Nou, now targeting May 2025 for a limited reopening. The renovation of the stadium, which began in June 2023 as part of the ambitious Espai Barça project, has faced multiple setbacks, pushing back previous timelines that aimed for completion in time for the club’s 125th anniversary last November.
Originally scheduled for a return by late winter, the club’s management now acknowledges that the completion of crucial construction milestones is taking longer than expected. Reports indicate that the earliest possible reopening may be in May, contingent upon final inspections and necessary adjustments to meet safety regulations. This includes approval from the Barcelona Fire Brigade regarding access and evacuation plans for an initial capacity of approximately 60,000 spectators.
Barcelona has been playing their home games at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys since leaving Camp Nou, with their lease set to expire at the end of March 2025. To accommodate ongoing renovations, the club is seeking an extension of this lease until late April. This extension is vital as several major events are planned at the Olympic Stadium in May, which could complicate scheduling for Barcelona’s home matches.
The club remains optimistic about hosting significant fixtures, including a potential El Clásico against Real Madrid on May 11, which would serve as a symbolic opening for the renovated stadium. Full completion of Camp Nou is projected for June 2026, with an estimated investment of €900 million aimed at enhancing its status as one of the premier football venues globally.
As construction progresses, FC Barcelona is committed to ensuring that their return to Camp Nou marks a new chapter in the club’s storied history while maintaining high standards for player and fan experience alike.
