On 28 May, the eyes of all of football in Europe will turn to Wrocław, where Tarczynski Arena will become the arena for the final of the UEFA Conference League. Hosting such an event, however, requires adequate preparation, so the stadium is undergoing intensive modernisation work.

Modernisation of Tarczyński Arena for final match

The UEFA Conference League final is already the fourth such event to be organised in Poland. This time the time has come for Wrocław and Tarczyński Arena, which will become the venue for the clash between the two best teams of the UEFA Conference League on May 28.

Hosting the final of the UEFA Conference League is prestigious, but also a logistical and financial challenge. Tarczynski Arena must meet the highest standards required by UEFA, which involves numerous investments. According to stadium spokesman Marcin Janiszewski, the modernisation work is already at an advanced stage with an estimated completion rate of around 85%.

As part of the modernisation, ticket-checkers have been replaced with modern devices, which enable fans to be served more quickly and reliably, regardless of the type of phone or weather conditions. The lighting of the walking avenues was extended by installing LED lights, which will provide better illumination while reducing energy consumption. The sound system was upgraded by replacing the sound processor and amplifiers, significantly improving the quality of the announcer's messages. The operation of the video screens has also been improved with the introduction of a new control system, which increases the efficiency of the stadium screens.

An improved WiFi system was provided for the media, allowing journalists and photographers to work efficiently during the final. A new screen was installed in the press room to meet high technical standards, new cutters were purchased and the stadium's IPTV system was upgraded. Shortly before the match, the pitch was also scheduled to be replaced to provide the players with a top-quality playing surface. The total cost of the investment is around PLN 3.5-4 million (1 million €), with funding coming from the stadium management company.

© Grzegorz Kaliciak | The Wrocław Stadium is 85% ready for the UEFA Europa Conference League final

Controversy over membrane cleaning

One of the most frequently raised topics by Silesia fans is the issue of the membrane covering the stadium roof. Made of fibreglass, the grey coating has become soiled and is significantly detracting from the aesthetics of the facility. It was initially planned to be cleaned in preparation for the final, but this idea was eventually abandoned.

Regarding the issue of cleaning the stadium membrane - this work was planned in preparation for the UEFA Conference League Final. After test runs on a section of the material, it became clear that the cleaning effect was not satisfactory and did not last long enough. In addition, several different quotations indicated that the cost of the operation - around half a million zlotys (250,000 €) - was disproportionately high in relation to the final effect. The decision was therefore taken not to wash the membrane explains stadium spokesman Marcin Janiszewski.