The renovation of Artemio Franchi is increasingly turning into a political–institutional conflict. The latest information indicates that the modernization of the facility may take until 2029, and the club warns that its participation in the project will require re-evaluation.

Fiorentina expresses dissatisfaction

ACF Fiorentina has published a statement referring to the latest information received from the City Council regarding the progress of works at Stadio Artemio Franchi. The club indicates that the data provided already point to delays extending beyond 2026. Additionally, there are scenarios related to the second phase of works, which could mean leaving the stadium for several months.

As the club points out, this situation is a serious concern, especially considering its previous willingness to cooperate, including leaving the stadium available to contractors from the end of May to mid-September this year. Fiorentina notes that in light of the new data, the conditions of its possible further participation in the project will have to be re-evaluated.

In its statement, the club also highlighted regret over the fact that the Nuovo Franchi project, which president Commisso wanted to finance privately already in 2019, was never approved. The stadium has been a construction site since February 2024 and is expected to remain so throughout the 2026/27 season, the club’s centenary year.

Works until 2029?

Information appeared in the public sphere that completion is planned only in 2029. According to this version, technical factors extend the construction of the new Curva Fiesole. Councillor Massimo Sabatini accused the Funaro administration of lack of effectiveness and of avoiding answers to key questions regarding materials, deadlines and logistics.

According to Sabatini, work on Curva Fiesole would not begin until early 2027, and full modernization would conclude in 2029. He also emphasized that the investment is financed under Pnrr and should be completed by 2026. He stated: I hope the Council is aware of the consequences!.

Chairman of the Culture and Sports Commission Marco Burgassi responded, stressing that the mayor waited for the most accurate technical data. Burgassi confirmed the technical completion date of 2029, while also noting that the desire to celebrate the centenary together with Fiorentina remains very important for the city. It’s a pity that the new Curva Fiesole will not be ready by August 2026, he added.

© ACF Fiorentina

Clash at Senate level and within the municipality

The issue also triggered sharp political disputes. Senator Paolo Marcheschi from Fratelli d’Italia said the Democratic Party administration hindered cooperation with the club and pointed to financial losses and negative consequences for the team. Marco Semplici from Funaro’s list responded that the senator was using the stadium project for propaganda.

Councillor Alessandro Draghi from FdI pointed out an additional risk — the future of the municipal swimming pool next to Franchi, used by around 1500 people. It is still unknown whether it will remain open until summer 2026 or whether an alternative will be needed.

Centre-right files a motion of no confidence against the mayor

Given the information disclosed after the elections regarding postponement of the schedule, centre-right opposition groups announced a motion of no confidence against the mayor. In their view, the delays could jeopardize funding and undermine citizens’ trust.

The ruling coalition in Florence described these actions as purely political and defetist. According to councillors from PD, Avs-Ecolò and the Funaro list, the motion of no confidence is an attempt to hide problems at the central government level. At the same time, they stated that the delays concern reorganization of technical phases, and the completion date of 2029 remains confirmed.

© ACF Fiorentina

Frequently asked questions about delays

Delays result from discrepancies between the original timetable and the actual ability to carry out works while simultaneously using the facility. The original documentation assumed that Fiorentina would leave the stadium from June 1, 2024 until the end of the renovation. Subsequent changes to dates caused complications between the municipality and contractors. There were also unforeseen technical difficulties, including those related to foundations for the new Curva Fiesole.

There are also doubts regarding financing for the second stage. There is not enough funding to implement the Arup project, and the €55 million withdrawn earlier is not enough to complete the full scope of modernization. Possible solutions include financial involvement from Commisso or selecting Florence as one of the host cities for Euro 2032, which could unlock additional support. The current plan assumes that the first part of the Fiesole stand may be opened to fans in the 2027/28 season, after necessary tests and certifications.

Could relocating to another venue help?

The hypothesis of temporarily playing at Stadio Padovani was rejected by Fiorentina. Although the city indicated that several months outside Franchi would be possible, additional funding and formalization of an agreement would be required to prepare Padovani for Serie A standards. For now, this scenario remains unlikely.

© ACF Fiorentina