The World Football Summit (WFS), the leading platform for the global football industry, has announced that the newly renovated Estadio Santiago Bernabéu has won the prestigious award for Best Stadium of the Year 2024.

A prestigious honor

This award recognizes the innovative features of Madrid’s coliseum and its ambitious vision to redefine not only the landscape of sports stadiums but also the cultural and economic fabric of Madrid. By attracting visitors and hosting diverse events, the stadium creates significant employment opportunities and revitalizes the city’s economic activity.

Santiago Bernabéu of Real Madrid is not just a stadium; it’s a glimpse into the future of sports and entertainment venues, said Jan Alessie, co-founder of the World Football Summit. Its blend of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and multifunctionality sets a new benchmark for what a modern stadium can be. It’s a real game-changer in the industry and a vital asset to Madrid’s economy.

© Javier Caireta - Serra

A city symbol

The award, which has previously been won by Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, highlights Real Madrid's ambition to become a reference point in the sports industry. The club’s vision extends far beyond football. Tristán López-Chicheri, CEO and lead partner of L35 Architects, recalls, The main goal of our project was to combine the number one team with the number one stadium, so that the image of the stadium would be easily associated with Real Madrid and become a memorable symbol.

© Madrid1902

The grand gala

José María Arrabal, Secretary General for Sports at La Junta de Andalucía, will present the award during the WFS Europe gala, scheduled for September 18. This event will gather over 2,500 professionals from the global football industry. Attendees will have the chance to learn from an impressive lineup of speakers, including Italian football legend Giorgio Chiellini.

Representatives from major football organizations and clubs such as the European Club Association, UEFA, Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Sevilla, Real Betis, Liverpool, and Juventus will also be present, along with hundreds of other sports organizations. WFS Europe represents the entire football industry ecosystem, offering participants an unparalleled networking and knowledge-sharing experience.

© Javier Caireta - Serra