After months of intensive planning and negotiations with local authorities, Real Betis is nearing the launch of its major stadium expansion. With the preliminary approval of the Planning Study now secured, the demolition of the current Preferencia stand is set to begin this summer.

365-Day open space

The new Preferencia stand, which will replace the existing structure, will extend into the area adjacent to Calle Doctor Fleming—a plot previously owned by the municipality. But this isn't just a traditional stadium expansion. Alongside it, a multifunctional building will be constructed, designed to serve the broader Seville community all year round.

This new terraced building will reach up to nine floors, with its tallest section facing Padre García Tejero Avenue. The first three floors will host commercial spaces, including units that will be allocated to the City Council as part of a compensation agreement. The fourth floor will include a wellness area with a gym, spa, and clinic. Floors five through eight will house a luxury hotel, while the top floor will feature a gastronomic zone with restaurants. One of the complex’s highlights will be a multi-use auditorium with 400–500 seats. The venue will accommodate events beyond football, making it a hub for cultural and business activities.

© Real Betis Balompié | Estadio Benito Villamarín

Funding and compensation

Such an ambitious undertaking comes with a high price tag—initially estimated at €150 million, though this may change. However, the club expects rental income from commercial areas, hotel operations, health services, and event hosting to significantly offset direct costs. Key revenue streams will also include enhanced commercial use of the stadium, particularly through VIP experiences, ticket sales, and the club museum.

The City of Seville is contributing more than 8,800 square meters of land and an additional 470-square-meter section of public road to the project. In return, the city will receive about 4,300 square meters of usable space in the new complex—valued at €9.5 million. This deal provides the city with valuable infrastructure assets without the need for direct financial investment.

Two seasons away from Villamarín

Demolition of the old Preferencia stand is scheduled to start this summer. The final match at Estadio Benito Villamarín is planned for May, against Valencia. Following that, Betis will relocate its offices to a temporary facility, and construction work will commence. For the next two seasons, the team will play its home games at the recently renovated Estadio de La Cartuja, which now accommodates over 70,000 fans.

The new Preferencia stand and surrounding complex were designed in collaboration between Spanish architect Rafael de La Hoz and the American firm Gensler. Their vision emphasizes year-round accessibility and urban integration, reflecting the latest trends in European stadium design. Plans also include the removal of fences around the Gol Norte, Fondo, and Gol Sur stands, along with updated entry systems and turnstiles relocated closer to the seating areas.

The new Preferencia stand will hold 13,500 spectators—10,000 in general admission and 3,500 in premium zones. Betis expects the VIP experience to become one of the project's primary revenue drivers, supported by increased sponsorship and broader commercial activities at the stadium.

© Sweet Fredo | Estadio Olímpico de Sevilla (Estadio La Cartuja)

Planning study and next steps

Once approved by the City Council Board, the Planning Study will be made publicly available, allowing residents and businesses to submit feedback. The final vote by the City Council is expected in June, although this may be rescheduled due to the Corpus Christi celebrations.

After final approval of the zoning plan, Real Betis will formally apply for a building permit. The club is already collaborating with the Urban Planning Office (Gerencia de Urbanismo), and all signs point to construction beginning as planned.

© Real Betis Balompié | Design of Estadio Benito Villamarín

“Project is now taking shape” – says club CEO

Real Betis CEO Federico Martínez Feria expressed his satisfaction with the project's progress: For months we’ve been working on all the technical requirements, and now we have temporary approval. We can finally say the project is taking shape he said.

He added that the club is sticking to a timeline developed several years ago and thanked the many institutions that have supported the initiative. The cooperation between all institutions was key—from the City of Seville to the regional government of Andalusia. The Regional Ministry for Sustainable Development and the Environment also played a crucial role. We’re very grateful. They’ve provided us with experts and resources. Now we’re just waiting for final approval.