Italy: Venezia FC prepares for new stadium construction

source: StadiumDB.com; author: Paulina Skóra

Italy: Venezia FC prepares for new stadium construction Venezia FC has presented its proposal for the management of a new stadium to the municipal council committees of Venice. The venue, planned as part of the Bosco dello Sport complex in the Tessera district, is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2027 and will accommodate up to 18,500 spectators.

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A modern entertainment hub

The club is seeking a 40-year concession and is committing to a total investment of €121 million, including €33 million allocated for infrastructure upgrades. If the city council approves the proposal — which also includes a 10,000-seat arena and a sports hall on Via del Granoturco — the resolution will serve as the basis for a public tender, which Venezia FC expects to win.

The club envisions the stadium as a cutting-edge entertainment hub, aligned with global trends. Planned features include fitness zones, restaurants, a club museum, large-format screens, theatrical lighting, retail spaces, modern locker rooms, and high-quality turf. The venue will also be equipped to host concerts and cultural events. A photovoltaic roof system is planned to generate more energy than the stadium consumes. The naming rights may be offered through a sponsorship agreement.

Design of Nuovo stadio di Venezia© Populous

Financial details and assumptions

City councillors focused their questions on the financial structure of the project. The €121 million investment includes an annual lease fee of €340,000 (adjusted by the Istat index), operational management costs, and the development of revenue-generating facilities such as gyms and restaurants. Venezia FC’s COO, Andrea Rog, stated during the meeting that the project is designed to ensure long-term financial sustainability and to support the club’s return to — and stability in — Serie A.

The plan also includes a profit-sharing clause, allowing the city to receive a portion of the profits if the club exceeds its projected earnings in certain seasons. Financial simulations anticipate the club spending 60% of future seasons in Serie A and 40% in Serie B.

Design of Nuovo stadio di Venezia© Populous

Questions regarding access and the old stadium

In response to concerns about accessibility for fans traveling from central Venice and nearby islands, the club confirmed ongoing cooperation with public transport provider ACTV to ensure effective connections to Tessera. Regarding stadium naming rights and event planning, Venezia FC representatives assured that all key decisions would be made in collaboration with local authorities.

No final decision has yet been made about the future of the current stadium — Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo — which Venezia FC has access to until 2030. Deputy Mayor Andrea Tomaello expressed hope that the venue would continue to serve the local community and sports activities. Venezia FC’s men's team will continue playing home matches there at least through the 2026/27 season.

One unresolved issue concerns the proposed Stadio railway stop, which is a key element of the Bosco dello Sport project. Although the station is under construction by the national rail company RFI, it remains uncertain whether it will be completed in time to serve the stadium and arena upon their opening.

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