Philips Stadion – design description

What does the Philips Stadion expansion project look like in brief?

The expansion project for Philips Stadion involves adding a third tier to the stands. The stadium will also receive a new roof and a unified, visually appealing facade.

Although the exact post-expansion capacity has not yet been determined, it could surpass that of the Johan Cruyff ArenA, potentially making Philips Stadion the largest stadium in the Netherlands.

The project is planned for 2027–2030, but several key details still need to be finalized before construction can begin.

How is Philips Stadion today?

Philips Stadion is among the largest and most prominent stadiums in the Netherlands. It is located close to the center of Eindhoven and traces its origins back to the period before World War I, when a pitch was built next to a workers’ housing estate for the football team associated with the Philips factory (the first match was played there in 1911).

Over the years, the stadium has undergone multiple expansions. The last major project was the enlargement of the southern corners in 2002. The current capacity is around 35,000 spectators, all of whom are seated under a roof.

Who are PSV Eindhoven?

PSV Eindhoven is one of the leading football clubs in the Netherlands, part of the so-called “Big Three,” alongside Ajax Amsterdam and Feyenoord Rotterdam. The club’s origins date back to 1910, when a football team was established by Philips employees.

At the time the expansion project was announced (March 2026), PSV had won 26 Dutch league titles (only Ajax Amsterdam has more), was the current leader of the Eredivisie, and the reigning national champion after consecutive triumphs in 2024 and 2025.

How did the Philips Stadion expansion project come about?

Plans for another major expansion of Philips Stadion already emerged during Belgium and the Netherlands’ bid to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The project was presented in November 2009, but after Belgium and the Netherlands lost the bid, the investment was shelved.

However, the idea of expanding the stadium was not abandoned entirely. As early as 2014, PSV authorities spoke of plans to increase the capacity to 50,000 seats.

In 2023, the club commissioned Hypercube to conduct studies on the potential expansion of the stadium. Subsequent consultations were also held with the international firm Populous. Market research indicated that PSV has the potential to regularly attract 55,000–60,000 spectators.

One possible solution considered was the construction of an entirely new stadium at a different location. However, it was concluded that the current location in the city center is the best choice for both the club and its supporters.

The new Philips Stadion expansion project was officially announced by PSV on 19 March 2026. The preliminary concept was developed in collaboration with Sweco.

What does the Philips Stadion expansion project involve?

The plan calls for the addition of a third tier to the stands. This will require the construction of additional load-bearing structures along the outer perimeter of the building, increasing the overall size of the stadium. The expansion of the stands will also include the construction of a new roof.

The extra tier will significantly increase the number of spectator seats. The exact capacity has not yet been determined, but it is expected to range between 52,000 and 58,500 (with the possibility that some areas will include standing room). If the capacity exceeds 56,000, Philips Stadion should surpass the Johan Cruyff ArenA and become the largest stadium in the Netherlands.

The enlarged building also allows for the creation of a new, unified, and visually appealing facade. Its distinctive feature will be a series of tall, slightly curved columns, while an open, covered area at the base will form a pedestrian corridor.

The lower part of the façade will feature brick walls, intended to reference the buildings of the historic workers’ district – Philipsdorp.

Changes will also affect the stadium’s surroundings. Although most of these plans have not yet been finalized, one of the objectives is to limit traffic on Vonderweg (behind the east stand) to buses and bicycles only.

When will Philips Stadion be expanded?

PSV Eindhoven officials plan to begin construction in the summer of 2027. Prior to that, all formalities must be completed, technical documentation prepared, tenders finalized, and the ground lease with the city renegotiated, as the expansion will also cover areas not included in the existing agreement.

The goal is to complete the expansion by 2030. It has not yet been decided whether the project will be carried out in a single construction phase or divided into multiple stages; however, matches will continue to be held at Philips Stadion throughout the construction period.

The exact cost of the project has not yet been determined, but according to various media reports, it is expected to range between €300 million and €450 million. The club will cover part of these costs, while the remaining funds are expected to come from other sources.