The new Cagliari stadium project has become bogged down in legal and financial disputes. Diverging positions between the club and the city over ownership and financing models are delaying key decisions and could put ambitious Euro 2032 plans at risk.

New Cagliari stadium and the battle over land rights

One of the main flashpoints between the city and the club concerns the legal framework for using the land designated for Cagliari’s new stadium. In its financial plan, the club proposed obtaining a 50-year surface rights agreement, which would grant it practical control over the stadium and surrounding land—facilitating negotiations with banks and other financing institutions.

City authorities strongly opposed this approach. According to the municipality, granting such rights would pose a real risk to public interest, including the potential loss of control over a strategic area in the event of financial difficulties for the investor. The city maintains that the stadium should remain publicly owned, with the club limited to a concession-based usage agreement.

© Cagliari Calcio | In its complex economic and financial plan, the club proposed obtaining the so-called surface rights for a period of 50 years.

Financial model under scrutiny

Another major point of contention is the proposed concession fee. Cagliari Calcio suggested an annual payment of €50,000, which the city considers grossly insufficient for a project valued at over €218 million. Officials argue that the fee fails to reflect the real value of the investment or to meet rational public spending standards.

As a result, the club’s financial plan must be thoroughly revised. Its approval has been officially postponed, preventing the project from moving to the next formal stage.

Sant’Elia stadium and the city’s ambitions

The new stadium is planned on the site of the current Sant’Elia, which has largely remained unused for years and symbolizes underutilized potential in this part of the city. The project envisions a modern arena with a capacity of around 25,000, expandable to 30,000 for international tournaments, including UEFA competitions.

The stadium is designed to meet the highest UEFA standards as well as Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) criteria, ensuring high energy efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint. The venue will serve not only sporting purposes but also commercial and social functions.

© Cagliari Calcio | The project involves the construction of a modern facility with a capacity of approximately 25,000 seats, with the possibility of a temporary increase to 30,000 for Euro 2032.

Race against time for Euro 2032

An additional pressure factor is the prospect of Italy co-hosting the European Championships in 2032 with Turkey. Cagliari’s new stadium could become one of the tournament venues—but only if construction proceeds on schedule.

Any delay in approving financial or legal plans jeopardizes this scenario. Both the city and the club have expressed willingness to continue negotiations, though their positions on key issues currently remain divergent.