Demolition of Europe's legendary largest stadium is progressing.Work is progressing smoothly and the outline of the new facility will soon be visible. For now, however, fans are watching rather grudgingly as recognisable elements of their stadium disappear. How has Camp Nou changed?

Camp Nou in ruins

People who visit the area around Spotify Camp Nou or simply pass by, encounter a surprising sight. The stadium, or what's left of it, no longer has the recognisable roof that once covered one part of the stands and protected fans from both rain and sun. Large cranes on site have completed the removal of the canopy, which later have been  placed on the site where the pitch used to be, awaiting its complete removal.

© Espai Héctor

Deadlines are being met, with the complete demolition of the third ring of stands scheduled for October. The stadium is expected to be ready by November 2024, as estimated by experts and confirmed by Joan Laporta. 

Camp Nou with a prestigious award

As for the design of the new Spotify Camp Nou, it was one of the winning projects in the 2023 edition of the International Architecture Awards (IAA). The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design and the European Centre for Architecture, Art, Design and Urban Studies revealed the winning projects, which included the Blaugrana venue.

Sustainability is part of the stadium's DNA, with a commitment to promoting ease of access to the stadium through public transport. It will also promote energy conservation and achieve greater efficiency by installing 18,000 m² of photovoltaic panels on the new roof to generate electricity equivalent to the demand of 600 houses. 

© Espai Héctor

What will Camp Nou be like?

The Catalan venue will install a geothermal system and a heating and cooling distribution system that will reduce energy consumption by 30%, reusing rainwater collected from the roof, allowing all the vegetation on the future site to be irrigated 10 times a year. In terms of biodiversity, the native fauna is already protected and the wooded area will be increased by 15%.

In terms of technology, the future Camp Nou will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology, such as a 360º screen inside the stadium, which will offer the public a new experience. The security and vehicle access control system will also be improved, and maximum use will be made of the possibilities offered by 5G connectivity.

© FC Barcelona