Real Betis Balompié is relocating to Estadio La Cartuja while Estadio Benito Villamarín undergoes reconstruction. Although the original plan foresaw a two-year absence from Heliópolis, the club is now open to a longer stay. Meanwhile, preparations for the first match are in full swing.

Villamarín demolition: cheaper, but not faster

In the coming weeks, one of Benito Villamarín’s main stands will be demolished. The process is not as easy as before, because we’re in the middle of assessing the value of the steel and so on, which allows us to receive cheaper offers. They’re removing materials of value so the demolition itself shouldn’t take more than a month or slightly longer Betis president Ángel Haro explained to Cope Sevilla.

Although the club insists that demolition won’t become a bottleneck for the project, much depends on completing planning procedures and securing the building permit. Betis initially projected the reconstruction to last two years. Now, the estimate is shifting toward two and a half years, though the club remains determined to meet the original schedule.

Betis won’t lose out by playing at La Cartuja

The first match at Estadio La Cartuja is scheduled for Friday, August 22 at 21:30 against Deportivo Alavés. It marks the start of a new phase for Betis – organizationally and logistically.

Despite initial concerns, Betis has managed to increase the number of season tickets by 4,500 compared to Villamarín. The VIP area is doing well – we expect to double what we had at our own stadium. We’re increasing the number of VIP seats from both our current and future stadium. 70% of these seats have already been sold Haro noted, calling it a test run for the new venue.

By the end of July, the number of processed season tickets is expected to reach 51,000. The club reports a high level of acceptance: 94% of fans have physically selected their seat in the new stadium.

© Real Betis Balompié | Design of Estadio Benito Villamarín

Plan for the largest fan mobilization in club history

The move to La Cartuja comes with major transportation challenges. In coordination with the City Council and Renfe (railway operator), the club is developing a personalized mobility plan using all forms of transport – from commuter trains to shuttle buses.

Each Betis supporter will receive a personalized travel guide based on their place of residence, aiming to reduce car use and ease post-match departures.

Renfe will reinforce its Cercanías commuter lines between Santa Justa and La Cartuja, including special matchday trains. Tussam, the local bus operator, will boost capacity on lines C1, C2, and 2 and introduce special shuttle services – modeled after those previously used for Villamarín.

For those driving to the match, over 5,000 parking spaces will be available in two designated zones. Only accredited vehicles – media, staff, sponsors – will be allowed to park directly around the stadium. There will also be a secure parking area for motorcycles, bicycles, and scooters between the venue and Barqueta. A dedicated bus zone will serve fan groups from across the province, and designated walking routes will also be established.

Final preparations underway

Since June, Betis has been gradually relocating club operations from Villamarín to La Cartuja. The communications department, hospitality sales, and season ticket services have already moved. Simultaneously, work is ongoing to personalize the stadium with signage, tunnel and ring branding, locker rooms, and entry areas.

Despite these efforts, fans may face road closures or access issues on matchday. A major redevelopment is underway around the southern section of the stadium, including new pavement, a three-lane road in each direction, a roundabout on Calle Américo Vespucio, and a link to the SE-20. While the full works are set to be completed by July 2025, many elements should be ready in time for the season opener.

© Junta de Andalucía | Estadio Olímpico de Sevilla (Estadio La Cartuja)