Plans have been in the works for some time to build a brand new Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Sportpark in Berlin. The project involves demolishing the old facility and constructing a new 20,000-seat arena. This stadium will be the third largest in the German capital, following the Olympic Stadium and Alte Försterei.

Delays expected?

The project, designed by O + M Architects and landscape architects Otto + Richter, aims to provide regional football clubs with a modern sports facility suitable for second and third-division German leagues. The investment also includes additional football fields, beach volleyball courts, tennis courts, and a multifunctional hall. A broad meeting center is also planned. However, when it comes to your plans, why not check out a selection of slot games?

The initial construction timeline called for the demolition of the old facility to begin in the third quarter of this year, with the stadium and other outdoor facilities slated for construction starting in the first quarter of 2025. The project was expected to be completed in the second half of 2027. However, it is unclear whether this schedule can be maintained due to additional costs. The Senate is currently anticipating delays due to budget cuts planned for 2026.

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High investment costs

In May, reports surfaced indicating that the new stadium would be over 70% more expensive than initially planned. In 2019, the Senate administration estimated the project's cost at €97 million. However, a March report revealed that the total cost would be €168 million, plus an additional €14 million for demolishing the old facility. Overall, costs are set to nearly double.

A few days ago, new information emerged in the German media. It appears that Pankow district mayor Cordelia Koch is questioning the demolition of the Jahn stadium. Given the current budget situation, everything is up for discussion, and it is highly doubtful whether this is the right time for demolition, Koch said in an interview with rbb24.de.

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In her view, the stadium's fate should be put on hold, and the focus must be on what we need most, she said, referring to the planned construction of the sports park around the stadium. She also noted that while demolition makes sense, it is unwise to demolish something without knowing if the entire concept can work.

Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Sportpark was built in 1952 and is the home ground of Berliner FC Dynamo. During the GDR era, the facility played a significant role in East Berlin, hosting Dynamo, the East German national team, and several national cup finals. After the reunification of Germany, the stadium did not have a permanent tenant, although it has occasionally hosted matches for Union Berlin, Hertha, Berliner AK 07, and Turkiyemspor Berlin.