Barcelona to Leave Camp Nou Next Season Amid €510m Funding Approval for Roof Construction

Barcelona will have to move out of Camp Nou again next season after the club approved a fresh €510 million funding package aimed at installing a roof over the stadium. The first team is set to return to the Montjuic Olympic Stadium while the complex work takes place, delaying their full return to Camp Nou until January 2028.

Temporary Relocation Confirmed

The club’s treasurer, Ferran Olive, confirmed that the team must temporarily relocate due to the extensive construction needed to add the stadium roof. This move forces Barcelona to play home games at the Olympic Stadium during the renovation period. The board expects the definitive homecoming to their iconic ground will be pushed back until early 2028.

Board Approves Staggered Financing Plan

The redevelopment project, known as Espai Barca, has faced multiple delays, leading the board to approve new financial measures. Club members voted in favor of this fresh injection of funds to manage the rising costs from setbacks. The capital will help cover expenses caused by delays and ensure the stadium upgrade stays on track.

Funding Breakdown and Rising Costs

The club outlined a two-part financial plan to complete the stadium works and modernize its infrastructure:

• €300 million for finishing Camp Nou, which now includes expanded facilities and advanced technology beyond the initial plans.
• €210 million raised through two Media Note issuances of €105 million each; one issued in July 2026 and another planned for October or November 2026.

This additional borrowing brings the total projected cost of the renovation close to €2 billion (£1.7bn/$2.3bn), reflecting the project's growing scale and complexity.

Future Capacity and Major Events

The current matchday capacity is 62,000 but will increase to 75,000 this season as the third tier progressively reopens. Once fully completed, Camp Nou will hold 95,000 fans by January 2028, with capacity peaking at 105,000 during the 2028-29 season. The upgraded stadium has already been chosen by UEFA to host the 2029 Champions League final, highlighting its renewed status on the European stage.

Summary of Key Details

• Relocation Venue: Montjuic Olympic Stadium
• Funding Approved: €510 million
• Roof Installation Timeline: Completion expected by January 2028
• Total Project Cost: Nearly €2 billion
• Capacity Growth: From 62,000 to 105,000 by 2028-29 season
• Major Event: 2029 UEFA Champions League final