One of the most significant renovations in the history of Estadio de Gran Canaria is about to begin. The island’s authorities have announced a tender for the demolition of the eastern tower – the first stage of works that will transform the venue into a modern stadium meeting FIFA requirements ahead of the World Cup.

First step towards the World Cup

Cabildo de Gran Canaria, through the Instituto Insular de Deportes (IID), has launched the tender process for the controlled demolition of the eastern tower of Estadio Gran Canaria. Companies interested in the project can submit their bids until September 1. This phase of the investment is valued at €805,000, with work expected to start at the end of this year or – at the latest – in early 2026.

The demolition will cover more than half of the 5,994.20 m² occupied by the entire structure. The works will be carried out using controlled techniques, specialist machinery, hand tools, and remotely operated demolition robots. According to the authorities, this approach will maintain the stability of the remaining part of the structure and ensure the stadium’s functionality throughout the works.

Investment worth nearly €100 million

The demolition of the eastern tower marks the starting point of a comprehensive modernization project estimated at almost €100 million. The entire plan is directly linked to Spain’s preparations for hosting the 2030 World Cup, which will place Gran Canaria among the venues for this prestigious event.

The Sports Councillor of Cabildo de Gran Canaria, Aridany Romero, emphasized that the start of the process represents a fundamental starting point for transforming the stadium into a reference facility, both for the island and the rest of the country. He also added that the next phases of the project will be carried out in accordance with the strictest technical criteria and full transparency.

© L35 Arquitectos

Changing the face of the stadium

The modernization project will increase the stadium’s capacity from 32,392 to 44,484 seats, exceeding FIFA’s minimum requirement of 40,000. The stands will be fully covered and moved closer to the pitch – particularly in the Naciente and Curva sectors – reducing the current distance from the field from 40 to just 7 meters.

Plans also include the creation of new commercial, dining, and leisure areas, a UD Las Palmas museum, and a sports center. The project is designed by L35 Arquitectos, the same architectural firm responsible for the renovation of Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid.

Preparatory works and safety

Before the demolition begins, preparatory works will be carried out to ensure site safety and smooth progress. Cabildo assures that the investment will be conducted in a way that does not interfere with the current use of the stadium by the Gran Canaria representative team and UD Las Palmas.

The tender process will be subject to strict technical and legal oversight to ensure that the final result meets the international standards required for hosting an event of this scale.

© L35 Arquitectos