Neo Química Arena, home of Corinthians, now has a capacity of 48,905 seats. The addition of 1,060 seats required no construction work—only a safety report from the Military Police, which approved the expansion.

Where were the new seats added?

According to the Corinthians board, the new seats were distributed as follows: the north sector gained 83 seats, the south sector 212, the lower east stand 50, the lower west stand 203, the upper west stand 50, and VIP boxes 462. The upper east stand maintained its previous capacity.

Expanding Neo Química Arena’s capacity was one of club president Augusto Melo’s campaign promises. However, he has yet to announce any plans for further renovations in the eastern part of São Paulo.

© instagram: @cairo.pilot

Gaviões da Fiel makes another payment toward Neo Química Arena’s debt

Corinthians’ organized supporter group, Gaviões da Fiel, recently announced another payment in its ongoing fundraising campaign to reduce the stadium’s debt. The initiative aims to lower the club’s outstanding balance with Caixa Econômica Federal by directly allocating donations to loan repayments.

In a social media post, Gaviões confirmed that the 52nd installment—amounting to R$40,925.67—was paid on February 18, 2025. The campaign does not have a set number of installments, as payments are made daily based on available funds, ensuring that all collected money goes directly toward reducing the debt.

© O Fiscal da Fiel

How does the fundraising campaign work?

The Neo Química Arena campaign is an ongoing initiative aimed at mobilizing Corinthians fans and partners for financial support. Since its launch in late November last year, it has raised over R$38 million, with a goal of reaching R$700 million by May 2025. Payments are made according to the available balance in the donation account, meaning installment amounts vary. So far in 2025, 34 transactions have been processed, with the last five ranging from R$31,083.11 to R$107,050.63.

© O Fiscal da Fiel

Strategies to boost donations

To maximize fundraising efforts, organizers are investing in digital strategies. Since late January, Corinthians players, former club legends, and influential fans have joined the campaign, participating in weekly online events. These live broadcasts take place at 7:10 p.m.—a nod to the club’s founding year—and aim to encourage fans to contribute financially. Additionally, Corinthians' main sponsor, Esporte da Sorte, has emerged as the campaign’s biggest donor, contributing R$1 million. Such support is crucial to the success of the initiative and the gradual reduction of the stadium’s debt.

The Gaviões da Fiel campaign plays a vital role in easing Neo Química Arena’s financial burden. With daily payments adjusted to available funds, every collected amount directly reduces the debt. With continued support from fans and sponsors, organizers hope to reach the R$700 million goal—or at least make significant progress—by May 2025. This collective effort highlights the strength and unity of Corinthians supporters in securing the club’s future.