The renovation work at Stadio Artemio Franchi is in full swing, with the goal of completing the upgraded facility by October 31, 2026. This strategic deadline aims to utilize funds from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and meet UEFA requirements ahead of Euro 2032.

Additional work needed

However, the modernization process is facing difficulties. A recently approved schedule adjustment extends the completion date by 198 days beyond the original deadline of April 16, 2026. Fiorentina's continued presence at the stadium during the renovation has required the implementation of special safety measures to allow matches to continue.

These include protective nets to prevent falling concrete debris and panels separating the construction site from the Fiesole sector to minimize disruptions. In order to finance these additional works, the city has temporarily abandoned the installation of approximately 9,000 seats in the honorary and Ferrovia stands, freeing up €1.115 million. These funds will be allocated in a later phase of the project.

What does the modernization timeline look like now?

The coming months will be crucial for completing the first phase of stadium in Florence modernization. Currently, piling work is underway in the Fiesole sector, which is scheduled to be completed by February 19. Then, from April to June, the installation of new stands is planned. The next phase will begin on May 31 and will include work on the Ferrovia sector, the lower part of the Maratona stand, and the honorary stand. One of the key stages will be the removal of the pitch, which will be replaced with a hardened surface capable of supporting the weight of construction machinery.

© ACF Fiorentina

The following months will be marked by demolitions, renovations, and structural reinforcements carried out according to a precisely planned schedule. The completion of work in the Ferrovia sector is scheduled for October 25, 2025, while the lower part of the Maratona stand should be completed by October 14, 2025. The renovation of the honorary stand façade is set to be finished by March 20, 2026. The final phase of the modernization project will begin on August 3, 2026, with completion expected by October 1, 2026.

City councilors skeptical about the situation

During a Florence City Council meeting earlier this week, a Q&A session was held with councilors Dmitrij Palagi and Lorenzo Palandri from the Sinistra Progetto Comune party. The discussion focused on changes to the renovation schedule and the financial situation following the modification of the plan, which aims to allow Fiorentina to continue playing at Stadio Artemio Franchi. Councilor Bettarini responded by stating that a different work organization has been proposed, but within the existing budget.

However, Palagi and Palandri expressed skepticism about this explanation. They pointed out that the response seemed to be based on wordplay and questioned how the changes to the renovation timeline would not affect costs, as city representatives claimed. They also stated that they would demand access to the documentation, arguing that it is unrealistic for Fiorentina to continue playing at the stadium without financial consequences. They highlighted the unresolved issue of securing the construction site, which was not initially included in the project. Additionally, they noted that if the club owner decides to invest independently, he would likely expect concessions in return, such as renegotiating the concession agreement, which could reduce the city's revenues.

They suggested that the current declarations might only reflect the immediate situation, while final agreements and project modifications are still pending. They expressed concerns that the issue is being swept under the rug instead of being discussed transparently and publicly. According to them, the lack of openness in this matter does not bode well for the public interest.

© ACF Fiorentina