Six Spanish stadiums undergo transformations for 2030 World Cup

by Else BeekmanElse Beekman
Published: Updated:
Spanish stadiums

Six of the eleven Spanish stadiums selected to host the 2030 World Cup will undergo extensive renovations to meet FIFA requirements. With only six years remaining, time is of the essence to complete these upgrades.

The iconic Camp Nou, renamed Espai Barça, is undergoing a massive renovation. Originally budgeted at €600 million, costs have now exceeded €1.5 billion. The renovation, expected to be completed by the end of 2024, will increase the stadium’s capacity to 105,000 seats. Additionally, it will feature the largest roof in Europe and three enormous video boards. Home to FC Barcelona, Camp Nou has witnessed numerous historic football moments, including the era of Johan Cruyff and the tenure of Lionel Messi.

La Romareda in Zaragoza

La Romareda in Zaragoza began its renovation on July 8, with an expected completion in late 2028. The stadium’s capacity will expand to 43,184 seats, with enhancements to protect against the Cierzo wind. La Romareda, home to Real Zaragoza, has a rich history of passionate support and multiple Copa del Rey victories.

Riazor in La Coruña

Riazor stadium in La Coruña will be modernised for €90 million, increasing its capacity to 48,015 seats, with 34 VIP boxes and an underground parking garage. This upgrade ensures compliance with FIFA’s requirement of a minimum of 40,000 seats. Riazor is the home of Deportivo La Coruña, which enjoyed its greatest successes in the 1990s and early 2000s.

La Cartuja in Sevilla

La Cartuja stadium in Sevilla will be modernised to accommodate 70,000 spectators as part of the 2030 World Cup preparations, as announced by Andalucian President Juanma Moreno. Opened in 1999, La Cartuja has hosted numerous significant events, including the Copa del Rey final and the Davis Cup. Sevilla’s major football clubs, Real Betis and Sevilla FC, play at Benito Villamarín and Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán stadiums, respectively.

La Rosaleda in Málaga

La Rosaleda in Málaga will receive a €130 million renovation, increasing its capacity to 45,000 seats. This project is a joint effort by the Málaga municipality, the province, and the Junta de Andalucía. La Rosaleda, home to Málaga CF, has undergone multiple renovations since its opening in 1941 to meet modern standards.

Estadio Gran Canaria

Estadio Gran Canaria in Las Palmas will undergo renovations from 2025 to 2027, with a €101 million investment. These updates are essential for meeting FIFA standards and preparing the stadium for the 2030 World Cup. Opened in 2003, Estadio Gran Canaria is one of the most modern stadiums in the Canary Islands and is home to UD Las Palmas.

These comprehensive renovations ensure that the selected stadiums will be ready to host the 2030 World Cup, enhancing capacity, facilities, and infrastructure to meet FIFA’s stringent requirements.

Also read: €101 million for stadium upgrades in Gran Canaria

You may also like