Arena Barueri – stadium description

Initially in this spot, in Barueri on the outskirts of Sao Paulo, a stadium was built in 1996. It could hold around 5,000 people, but this soon proved insufficient due to fast development of local football side Grêmio. After 2000 the club advanced from regional level to national 2nd division, pushing authorities to redevelop the ground.

It was announced that a 25,000-seater would be erected in the place of the old one, but once FIFA announced Brazil as World Cup 2014 hosts, plans were modified and capacity went up to 35,000. First phase of the redevelopment was finished in 2007 with the venue reaching half of its future capacity. All stands were finished in September 2010 and were thought to receive cover in late 2011, but that element was put on hold. Four massive pillars are ready to carry it once it’s back on the agenda.

The stadium boasts high class infrastructure for both corporate clients (36 skyboxes with total capacity of 420 people) and media (37 cabins for both radio and tv commentators). It also has 4 giant screens. All stands have seats, though those at the single-tiered section for more vigorous supporters have no backrests.