Rot-Weiss Essen is aiming to expand its stadium by closing the open corners of the stands. The city of Essen supports the project, but time is running out—only one more city council meeting remains before the political summer break, where a vote on the expansion can still take place.

Long talks have yet to bring an agreement

If no agreement is reached in time, the entire construction timeline could become unfeasible. The main point of contention remains the future lease payment the club would owe. The current lease runs until 2027, so new terms must be negotiated regardless. A preliminary agreement had already been reached, laid out in a signed letter of intent endorsed by the club’s former board and supervisory council. However, current RWE chairman Marc-Nicolai Pfeifer wants to negotiate a lower amount—around €900,000 per season in the 3. Liga and nearly €2.4 million in the 2. Bundesliga.

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This move was not well received by the municipal property agency GVE. Still, with local elections approaching in September, a compromise remains likely. All parties see the project as vital for both the city and the club. CDU parliamentary group leader Fabian Schrumpf stated that his party supports the expansion, noting that Germany’s tenth-largest city deserves a stadium that meets international standards. However, he also stressed that all parties need to agree on an economically viable solution, and that the club must show flexibility.

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Modernisation is a major opportunity for Essen

The Stadion Essen upgrade is essential if Essen is to host international sports events—FIFA regulations require at least 20,000 seats. Meanwhile, the club can only grow if its revenues increase, which is directly linked to the stadium’s capacity. A planning decision passed in March 2025 outlines the project framework: after the upgrade, Stadion Essen will accommodate 26,608 spectators—14,483 seated and 12,125 standing. For international matches, standing areas will be temporarily converted into seating to meet requirements.

The renovation will also cover key infrastructure upgrades, including modernised locker rooms and improved accessibility for people with disabilities. The stadium will be equipped with state-of-the-art media systems and enhanced security features. The city aims to improve transport infrastructure as well, potentially building a bicycle parking facility—though this idea may not move forward due to high costs. A critical role will be played by the Citybahn light rail, which from 2028 is expected to stop 700 metres from the stadium at Bergeborbeck station.

Under the current schedule, planning will continue until the end of 2025. Public tenders are expected in 2026, and construction would begin after the 2025/2026 season. The latest possible construction start date is July 1, 2026. To stay on schedule, all parties must reach an agreement before the summer break. The next round of negotiations between the club and GVE is set to take place in the coming days.

© Stadion-Essen.de