Hertha Berlin is evaluating possible stadium locations in and outside Berlin. Shortlist of best options should be presented early next year.

During yesterday’s general meeting of Hertha BSC president Werner Gegenbauer couldn’t avoid a question about the planned new stadium. Hertha has been hinting about the dream to abandon Olympiastadion for some time now, after all.

Supporters weren’t treated to many details, but Gegenbauer revealed the stage at which Hertha is at the moment. “Architects aren’t on the job yet, we’re running first preliminary studies”, the president said. According to Tagesspiegel there are several sites under consideration, one or more of which can be revealed soon.

Photo: Chrisgj6 (cc: by-sa)

“In January, February at the latest”, replied Gegenbauer when asked about when will the announcement be made. This is when talks about the stadium should begin with local authorities. Currently though, the club has a lease for Olympiastadion signed until 2025.

Whether the team will remain there until the end in 9 years may be a question of funding for the new stadium. Hertha is reported to be looking for a new investor, similar to the 2014 entry of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., who invested a total of €61 million into the club.