France: The new PSG stadium could be built in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvel

source: StadiumDB.com; author: Jakub Ducki

France: The new PSG stadium could be built in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvel PSG has long been searching for a solution to its stadium dilemma. Finding a suitable location has proven challenging, and the latest proposal -Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines- is now facing growing opposition from local residents.

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What are advantages of Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines?

For years, Parc des Princes has been an iconic home for PSG, but its modernization has become a major issue. The club has sought to expand the stadium significantly, yet Paris authorities rejected their bid to purchase the venue. As a result, Qatar Sports Investments, PSG’s owner, has been exploring alternative locations to build a stadium that matches the club's ambitions. Initial options included Poissy Yvelines and Ris-Orangis in Essonne, but neither proved to be ideal. Now, a new alternative has emerged—Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines.

Located just 25 km from Paris, Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines is a rapidly growing metropolitan area that could provide PSG with the necessary space for a new stadium. The area boasts excellent transport infrastructure, including an extensive rail and bus network that ensures quick access from Paris, as well as well-developed road connections for those traveling by car.

Parc des Princes© Chabe01 (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Local authorities have proposed a 50-hectare site where a stadium with a capacity of 60,000 to 90,000 seats could be built. In addition to the stadium, plans include the development of a PSG Land—a commercial and entertainment complex centered around the club. Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines is also a thriving economic hub, home to over 17,000 companies and providing more than 145,000 jobs.

Moreover, the new stadium could stimulate the region’s service and tourism sectors. The city is no stranger to hosting major sporting events. It was a venue for the 2024 Olympic Games and the 2019 Ryder Cup. Additionally, the area features the renowned Vélodrome National and Golf National, both of which regularly host international tournaments.

Strong local opposition and environmental concerns

Despite the many advantages of this location, the project has encountered significant resistance from local residents and environmental organizations. The primary concern is that the proposed site is near a Natura 2000 area, a European Union-designated zone aimed at preserving biodiversity. This area is home to over 200 bird species, and the construction of a stadium and its accompanying infrastructure could threaten their natural habitat.

Concerns also extend to the financing of the project and its impact on the local community. More than 10,000 residents have signed a petition against the stadium, citing significant environmental, financial, and civic consequences associated with the development.

Parc des Princes© Chabe01 (CC BY-SA 4.0)

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