In an interview with journalist Tomasz Ćwiąkała, Widzew Łódź president Michał Rydz revealed that the club is finally commissioning a professional analysis regarding the expansion of its stadium. It’s the first serious step in years. At the same time, he addressed relations with the city and the role fans might play in planning a larger facility.

Maximum demand? 60,000. Current capacity? 18,000

Widzew Łódź regularly sells out its stadium, and according to the club’s president, demand for tickets can reach up to 60,000 for some matches. Meanwhile, it’s still unclear what exactly would need to be done to add even a single tier of seating along Piłsudski Avenue. Michał Rydz admitted in his conversation with Tomasz Ćwiąkała that the idea of a new stadium has become something of a local myth. Now, however, the club aims to move from speculation to concrete planning.

In the interview published on the Canal+ journalist’s YouTube channel, the Widzew president shared that preparations are underway to commission a full location and structural feasibility study. A meeting on this matter was reportedly scheduled for the same day as the interview. The analysis will cover the potential for expanding the current stadium as well as explore alternative locations. Rydz noted that the study must include reinforced concrete assessments and a spatial planning review. He admitted that the current uncertainty about whether, where, and at what cost is blocking any further action.

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Widzew’s Stadium Should Match Zabrze and Warsaw

When asked by Tomasz Ćwiąkała about the target capacity for a larger or entirely new stadium, the Łódź club president responded: Realistically, I think something similar to what Górnik or Legia have – between 28,000 and 32,000 or 33,000 seats.

Rydz is clear: it’s not about the illusion of progress, but about hard data that can support discussions with the city and fans. If the analysis confirms that expansion is feasible, then upgrades would also be needed to the away section, parking lots, and access roads – including the route to the nearby train station. If expansion proves impossible, the club is ready to discuss a new location – although Rydz admitted it’s difficult to identify a suitable plot for a stadium in Łódź today.

He emphasized that regardless of location, transparent communication with fans will be key. If expansion is possible, the decision will be made collectively. If not, the club wants to demonstrate that it did everything possible to find the best solution.

Another major factor is the strained relationship with the city. In the interview, Rydz clearly stated that building a training pitch next to the stadium is essential, and expressed disappointment that this municipal project has not even begun – although it should be nearing completion by now. He also noted that he hasn’t felt any improvement in club–city relations since Robert Dobrzycki joined Widzew.

Not Just the Stadium – Training Infrastructure Is Turning Players Away

The conversation also touched on training infrastructure. First-team players still change at the stadium and commute to the Łodzianka training grounds – often by bicycle, since driving during rush hour is inconvenient. There’s a lack of locker rooms, support facilities, and conditions worthy of a top-tier club. We might have a good relationship and convince the player, but there’s always that ‘but,’ said Rydz.