After complete reconstruction the new Stadionul Ghencea will hold 30,500 people. The contract, worth an expected 301.77 million lei (€65 million) will be executed in 25 months, just before Euro 2020.

While it's only a secondary stadium for Euro 2020, it's still one of Romania's largest stadium projects. Moreover, it has to be built in time for the tournament regardless of its training-base role.

Thankfully, in recent days progress has been made. In late February the Steaua stadium was transferred to the National Investment Company (Compania Naționala de Investiții). This week funding was finally approved and it will be one of Romania's most expensive stadium projects.

RON 301.77 million (€65 million) will allow the transformation into a UEFA Category 4 stadium with 30,500 seats, 24 rooms for sportsmen, a sky bar and numerous more amenities. Time frame for works is tight, but it's expected we should see the final outcome in 25 months.

The stadium will be used by Steaua Bucharest, though not the top-flight one, currently known as FCSB. Currently fighting in the 4th league, Steaua has already sold 10,000 season tickets.

Romania's primary Euro 2020 venue will be the National Stadium in Bucharest, but 4 other grounds across the city are to be reconstructed. The home stadia of Dinamo (new location), Rapid, Steaua and the national rugby stadium will all become Category 4-eligible.

Photo: Gabinho