Spain has taken it strongly to heart that its flagship venues have become increasingly out of step with current European standards. All indications are that another popular arena on the Iberian Peninsula will soon see an overhaul.

When was the plan for the renovation of Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán created?

The renovation of the Santiago Bernabeu is slowly coming to an end. The stadium has undergone a major transformation becoming a 21st century structure. Work on the redevelopment of Camp Nou has entered its most important phase. Their advanced progress has resulted in FC Barcelona moving to Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys for the coming season. The works associated with this development are due to be completed in 2025. It turns out that another Spanish arena is already in line for an upgrade. Work to upgrade Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán is due to begin in 2026.

As a reminder – in spring 2022, Sevilla FC commissioned a study on the development of the facility's infrastructure. The club entrusted the Legends consortium with the task. The company has been responsible for consulting on projects such as the aforementioned Santiago Bernabeu and Camp Nou, Cívitas Metropolitano and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The question of how they see the future of the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán was addressed to a section of Los Nervionenses supporters.

© Patrick Hendriksen

When is work expected to start on Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán?

After more than a year of gathering fans' opinions, reports have emerged that the club's authorities have taken firm decisions. According to the Football Espana portal, it is not Legends but the international company IDOM, responsible for, among other things, the design of the new La Romareda that will take charge of preparing the plan for the redevelopment of Sevilla's home ground. The Bilbao-headquartered entity is to prepare a completely new concept for the development of the arena, which is expected to be much more ambitious and at the same time more financially and environmentally sustainable.

Legends included in their proposals that the stadium facility should be expanded to a maximum of 45,000 seats, with 10% reserved as VIP areas. However, the Sevilla authorities would like to have more seats. In their opinion, the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán should have a capacity of between 55,000 and 60,000 spectators. This would involve the construction of a third row of stands which could be problematic due to high-density housing around the venue. The developer also hopes that the arena would get at least partial roofing of the sectors.

It is not yet known when exactly the project will see the light of day. It’s difficult to estimate the cost of future reconstruction. Unofficially, it is said that if thorough work begins on Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, there will be no problem in finding a replacement home for Los Nervionenses. Estadio Olímpico de la Cartuja can serve such function as in recent years it has hosted the Copa del Rey finals, as well as Euro 2020 meetings.

© Moon Hopper