The Sardinia Region has confirmed plans to allocate €50 million to the Municipality of Cagliari, which will in turn pass the funds to the football club for the construction of a new stadium. However, certain revisions to the original plan have sparked debate.

Environmental-friendly adjustments to the design

Key revisions to the new agreement include the removal of provisions for office spaces, services, and science museums initially planned between the San Bartolomeo and Sant’Elia districts. These areas will now be transformed into green spaces and parking facilities. This change aligns with European environmental policies and Sardinia’s regional landscape plan, aiming to create a sports and recreational complex with minimal ecological impact.

Municipal authorities have reiterated that the updated project focuses on sustainability, limiting construction to what is necessary to support sports and recreational activities. The modifications are intended to avoid delays that could jeopardize the entire project. While the football club has been informed of these changes, all stakeholders remain committed to adhering to the timeline, accelerating progress to ensure the city secures its bid to host matches during Euro 2032.

© Cagliari Calcio

A crucial phase for Cagliari

Following UEFA's endorsement, which labeled the Cagliari stadium project as the best in the area, approval has also come from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). During a meeting in Turin, FIGC officials discussed organizational, logistical, and infrastructure concerns with representatives from candidate host cities. Cagliari remains in contention to join the list of host cities for Euro 2032, which will be held jointly by Italy and Turkey.

However, FIGC has set strict deadlines: construction must commence by March 2027, with the stadium completed within two years. Failure to meet these deadlines would result in Cagliari being removed from the host list. To meet the schedule, the city must finalize all administrative procedures, including municipal permits, an international tender process, and contractor selection, within a year.

© Cagliari Calcio

Final decision expected in two years

Giuseppe Macciotta, the Sports Commissioner, stated that the bureaucratic process is advancing rapidly, with all necessary verifications completed. Regional Chairwoman Alessandra Todde is expected to issue a decree enacting the December 2023 agreement, incorporating the aforementioned adjustments. This will enable the transfer of €50 million in public funding from the Region to the Municipality for the stadium’s construction.

The Cagliari stadium project meets all established requirements and is regarded as exemplary. However, FIGC and UEFA will evaluate construction progress closely. A final decision will be made in autumn 2026 when UEFA selects host cities based on adherence to deadlines and project quality. Meanwhile, another review meeting with FIGC is scheduled for March 2025 to assess progress.