Italy: Fiorentina stadium redevelopment drags on as Euro 2032 pressure builds

source: StadiumDB.com ; author: Paulina Skóra

Italy: Fiorentina stadium redevelopment drags on as Euro 2032 pressure builds The redevelopment of Stadio Artemio Franchi is entering another phase, but each design change highlights how delicate the process has become. Florence is racing against time and logistical challenges, hoping the stadium will regain its shine before Euro 2032 and keep the city in the tournament race.

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Change of structure at the Florence stadium construction site

Another design decision has been taken at the redevelopment site of Stadio Artemio Franchi. Instead of prefabricated reinforced concrete beams, originally planned to weigh around 15 tons each, steel elements will now be used. These will support the new stands of the emerging Curva Fiesole. The revision was approved by the city authorities at the end of January and marks the fourth change to the stadium’s redevelopment documentation.

The new beams will be self-supporting structures, capable of bearing their own weight. Importantly, the modification will not affect the overall investment cost — spending will remain in line with the original plan. The change stems primarily from limited maneuvering space at the construction site. Transporting and installing massive concrete components would have required significantly larger equipment than what is currently available inside the stadium.

Work schedule at Franchi remains unchanged

Engineers insist that the structural performance of the new stand will remain consistent with the original design. The completion date for Curva Fiesole — May 2027 — also remains unchanged. Installation of the steel elements is scheduled to begin later this month.

Despite changes to the project, the deadline for completing work on the stadium in Florence remains unchanged.© ACF Fiorentina | Despite changes to the project, the deadline for completing work on the stadium in Florence remains unchanged.

To reduce potential delays, mayor Sara Funaro has announced the possibility of allowing construction works during nighttime hours. However, this requires special authorization from the commissioner appointed in connection with preparations for UEFA Euro 2032, which Italy will co-host with Turkey. The formal appointment of Massimo Sessa as extraordinary commissioner for stadium infrastructure is still being finalized.

By the end of July, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) must designate five Italian host cities for the tournament. Florence remains in contention, also hoping for financial support for facilities deemed of strategic importance.

Cimolai enters Fiorentina stadium construction site

The company Cimolai, specializing in large-scale steel structures, has now joined the construction site. The elements will be pre-assembled near the stadium before being installed as part of both the temporary and permanent structures. Prefabricated steps for the new stands, produced in the province of Pistoia, are also ready and will be installed once the key steel works are completed.

Foundation works are continuing in parallel, including the installation of micropiles. Part of this phase has been subcontracted to Songeo, a company based in Latina, under arrangements approved by the Florence authorities.

By the end of July, the FIGC (Italian Football Federation) must name five Italian host cities for Euro 2032.© ACF Fiorentina | By the end of July, the FIGC (Italian Football Federation) must name five Italian host cities for Euro 2032.

Temporary relocation of Campo di Marte market

The stadium redevelopment has also affected the local market in the Campo di Marte district. Twenty-four stalls — both food and non-food — have been temporarily relocated near the Maratona stand, around 200 meters from their previous site. Trading continues unchanged from Monday to Saturday between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm.

The new location was selected following consultations with trade associations and representatives of the vendors. City officials stress that the solution is temporary and allows commercial activity to continue without disruption while construction progresses at the stadium.

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