Although the pitch has been removed, Santiago Bernabéu is buzzing with activity. Renovation works are underway both inside and outside the stadium, preparing it for new uses – including hosting an NFL game.

Ongoing upgrades inside and out

Construction machines have once again rolled into Santiago Bernabéu. The pitch is gone, and workers are busy across various sections of the stadium. The summer renovation schedule includes both the stadium interior and its surroundings, with visible work being done near major roads like Concha Espina and Paseo de la Castellana. These efforts involve resurfacing and installing exterior elements that may serve a soundproofing function.

Structures are appearing both outside and inside the stadium, which are believed to be designed to reduce noise levels. This would pave the way for concerts to be held at the stadium once more, as Bernabéu is set to serve cultural and entertainment purposes in addition to football.

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Preparations for NFL game

The stadium’s interior is also changing by the day. Long queues of fans and tourists line up from the morning to visit the stadium as part of the Bernabéu Tour. After walking through two museum levels, visitors can look into the central part of the venue and see the ongoing work.

The grass has been removed. The pitch level is currently lower than usual, exposing parts of the famous hypogeum – the underground system used to store the turf. The field now resembles a bustling construction site, with machinery and workers spread out across the surface.

While safety railings have already been installed on the top tier, some features of the new Bernabéu are still in the planning phase – such as the viewing platform and a large number of bars and restaurants. These are not yet complete, but are part of the overall transformation designed to enhance the stadium experience.

The most intensive work is happening behind both goals. Here, machines are cutting out space for retractable seating rows. This is part of the adaptation process for the NFL game set to take place on November 16. Since an NFL field is longer than a football pitch, movable infrastructure is needed to expand the playing area.

The stadium tour route has also been affected. Due to ongoing works, visitors currently do not have access to the pitch, and the locker rooms are off limits. These areas are also being upgraded – the locker rooms will be expanded to meet the demands of events like the upcoming NFL game.

© Madrid1902