Germany: Max Morlock Stadium redevelopment. City council comes to help

23.06.2023 12:00 source: StadiumDB.com; author: Jakub Ducki

Nuremberg is facing a major change to transform Max Morlock Stadium, home of football club 1. FC Nürnberg. The plans are not limited to upgrading the existing structure, but also include ambitious projects to make the venue more functional and attractive.

Redevelopment plans

Max Morlock Stadium, named after the legendary footballer, is one of Germany's most famous sports facilities. Its history dates back to the 1920s and over the years it has hosted many major sporting events, including World Cup matches in 2006. Unfortunately, Nuremberg's stadium was not selected to host the Euros in 2024 due to its ageing infrastructure, prompting the club's decision to renovate.

The Nuremberg City Council has adopted a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the stadium, which involves significant changes to its structure. The main points of the plan include a change in the number of spectator seats. The current capacity of the stadium is around 48,000 seats. The new plans envisage 40 000 seats and up to 10 000 standing places, as recommended by the club's and the city's design group. This arrangement will make it possible to host international matches.

In addition, the running track will be removed and the stands will be brought closer to the pitch. Club officials assure that the shape of the arena will remain unchanged - the stadium will have an octagonal form.

Financing project

One of the key elements that has made it possible to start work on the stadium redevelopment is securing appropriate sources of funding. The project is being financed by both public and private funds. The City of Nuremberg will invest a significant proportion of the funds, but significant support is also coming from private investors and sponsors.

Current estimates put the amount at just under €300 million for the renovation of the stadium. At least that is what Nuremberg's councillors believe. 1. FC Nürnberg also wants to contribute 30 million euros. The remainder of the renovation is to be financed by a loan, which will be repaid from ticket sales and stadium rental income.The stadium redevelopment is scheduled to be completed in 2027.