La Cartuja has undergone a remarkable transformation both in terms of image and ecology. From a facility on the brink of ruin, it has become a venue for major sporting events. The successful organization of the Copa del Rey final confirmed its role as one of the most important stadiums in Spain.

Copa del Rey success

The regional government of Andalusia estimated the economic impact of the Copa del Rey final at La Cartuja at over €75 million. According to preliminary estimates, this amount may increase to as much as €90 million, while the match between F.C. Barcelona and Real Madrid had an international media reach, attracting 450 million viewers in more than 180 countries.

Patricia del Pozo, Councilor for Culture and Sports, emphasized in the Andalusian Parliament the organizational success of the final, as well as the economic and media benefits resulting from the event. She noted that during the match weekend, between 110,000 and 130,000 visitors stayed in Seville, and La Cartuja itself was filled to capacity, also hosting around 300 accredited journalists from various countries such as Poland, Mexico, Italy, Argentina, France, and the United Kingdom.

© Sweet Fredo

From decline to renewal

La Cartuja has come a long way from near total decline to modern glory. In 2018, when Juanma Moreno took over the leadership of the Junta of Andalusia, the stadium was in a deplorable state - closed for safety reasons, with the roof posing a threat. Thanks to government investments amounting to €10 million, La Cartuja was transformed into a modern sports facility with a capacity of 70,000, capable of hosting the world’s most important sporting events.

Following the organizational success of the Copa del Rey final, La Cartuja is preparing for the 2030 World Cup, where it will be one of the key tournament stadiums. In recent years, the stadium has also hosted Euro 2020, the 2020-2021 UEFA Nations League, and in the near future, it will host Real Betis matches during the redevelopment of Estadio Benito Villamarín.

© Junta de Andalucía

Ecological transformation

One of the key elements of La Cartuja's modernization was the installation of 768 photovoltaic panels by the company Ecotelia from La Rioja. Since October 2023, these panels have been supplying energy to the stadium, resulting in significant electricity savings and a reduction in CO₂ emissions by 300,000 kg per year. The produced energy corresponds to the annual consumption of approximately 1,500 households.

Since the installation, La Cartuja, powered by energy from the La Rioja panels, has hosted many prestigious events. In addition to two Copa del Rey finals, the venue also hosted the UEFA Women's Nations League final in 2024 and an AC/DC concert.