FC Barcelona is waiting for the next increase in Camp Nou’s capacity, a move that could also pave the way for the return of organised support. As the stadium gradually fills up again, questions are growing about atmosphere, identity and the revival of matchday energy.

Will the Grada d’Animació return to Camp Nou in a new form?

In recent weeks, FC Barcelona’s board has opened talks with the four supporter groups that previously formed the Grada d’Animació: Penya Almogàvers, PB Nostra Ensenya, Front 532 and Barça Supporters. The goal is to bring organized fan support back to Spotify Camp Nou. After a long period of tension, both sides have expressed a willingness to reach an agreement, describing the talks as constructive negotiations aimed at quickly restoring the unique atmosphere for which Barcelona’s stadium was once famous.

The supporter groups stress that their sole motivation is to support the team from the stands and that they want to look forward, without allowing past conflicts to block the rebuilding of relations. For the club, the return of the Grada d’Animació is part of a broader effort to restore the full identity and character of Spotify Camp Nou after years of renovation and playing away from the stadium.

Club awaiting the next stadium operating license

At this stage, Spotify Camp Nou can host around 45,400 spectators. The club is now waiting for the so-called 1C license, issued by the City of Barcelona, which would allow further increases in attendance.

Once the administrative approval is granted, capacity is expected to rise to approximately 62,500 seats. The opening of Gol Nord and the new Grada d’Animació would be both a sporting and symbolic milestone, marking the true return of Camp Nou’s soul. The club hopes to finalize the process ahead of an upcoming league or cup match.

© RCD Mallorca | Camp Nou's capacity of 62,500 would be among the highest in the league. However, the stadium will gain over 40,000 additional seats.

Accessibility and infrastructure around Spotify Camp Nou

One issue that continues to raise questions among socios and fans concerns access and parking. In the past, Camp Nou benefited from extensive underground parking facilities, significantly easing matchday logistics. Under the Espai Barça project, however, the stadium’s surroundings are undergoing a major transformation, including new sports and commercial facilities.

Some commentators warn that the lack of clear information on future parking and transport solutions could become problematic once the stadium reaches full capacity. The club insists, however, that these issues are part of a long-term urban plan developed jointly with the city.

Stadium redevelopment and Barcelona’s financial ambitions

President Joan Laporta has repeatedly emphasized that the new Spotify Camp Nou is central to FC Barcelona’s financial recovery. The board projects annual stadium revenues—from ticket sales, VIP boxes, non-sporting events and commercial spaces—of between €350 and €400 million. These revenues are expected to stabilize the club’s finances, support continued sporting investment and maintain competitiveness at the international level.

According to current plans, full completion of the stadium redevelopment is scheduled for late 2027 or early 2028. A critical phase will be the installation of the roof, which will require several months without matches at the stadium. The club is already working on coordinating this stage with LaLiga and UEFA calendars.

© RCD Mallorca | The installation of the Camp Nou roof will require a break in the stadium's operations for several months.