Although nearly two years remain until the end of the Camp Nou renovation, Barcelona has already exhausted the initial budget and is forced to seek additional financing. Meanwhile, inspections continue for the long-awaited opening of the Gol Nord stand, which has yet to materialize and could prove crucial against Atlético de Madrid.

Spotify Camp Nou renovation – technical inspections and the role of the City of Barcelona

On Thursday, municipal technicians visited Spotify Camp Nou to carry out a routine inspection, reviewing construction progress and the readiness of the Gol Nord stand infrastructure. The seating area is already prepared for use, while final works continue on circulation routes and supporter access points.

A key role in approving Phase 1C is played by the independent certification company DEKRA, responsible for confirming compliance with applicable safety standards. At the request of Espai Barça project director Joan Centelles, representatives of the city authorities are also participating in the inspection process.

The club hopes that the increased capacity could be available for the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atlético de Madrid. However, a more realistic scenario assumes the full reopening of Gol Nord for the LaLiga match against Sevilla FC scheduled for the weekend of March 14–15.

© FC Barcelona |The Camp Nou should be ready by the end of 2027.

Camp Nou redevelopment exceeds initial budget

Alongside the administrative procedures, financial challenges surrounding the project are intensifying. The renovation cost, initially estimated at €960 million, has already been fully committed. Current spending has surpassed €1 billion, even though key construction phases remain ahead. These include the third tier of the stands, the VIP ring, and the installation of the roof—considered the final stage before the stadium is fully operational. Internal forecasts suggest the total cost could rise by an additional €200–300 million.

According to RAC1, to cover the growing expenses the club is drawing on the €1.5 billion global financing package granted by Goldman Sachs. Part of the funding also comes from a contingency reserve intended for unforeseen costs. The budget overrun directly impacts the wider Espai Barça project, including the planned construction of the new Palau Blaugrana. Funds originally earmarked for the arena may be partially redirected to cover the stadium’s excess costs.

Importantly, despite earlier suggestions that penalties could be imposed on contractor Limak Construction for delays, the club currently does not intend to seek compensation for each day of postponement.