The renovation of Stadio Artemio Franchi has encountered an unexpected obstacle. During the installation of a 24-ton steel beam for the new Curva Fiesole, a precision alignment issue was detected, forcing its removal and a temporary halt to works. The club and city authorities insist it is a technical matter, not a threat to the overall project.

Problem installing the second beam at Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence

An unexpected stoppage occurred at the construction site of Stadio Artemio Franchi during the installation of the second steel beam for the new Curva Fiesole. On Wednesday, 18 February, the first steel element – measuring approximately 15–16 meters in length and weighing 24 tons – was successfully installed. The operation followed the schedule and was seen as a symbolic milestone in the progress of the redevelopment. However, a day later, during the attempt to position the second beam, engineers encountered difficulties in achieving precise alignment with the adjacent structural components.

The massive beam was initially set in place using a specialized heavy-duty crane. After irregularities were detected, it was dismantled and lowered back to the ground. The issue concerned axial alignment, which prevented a perfect structural connection between the elements. With prefabricated components of this scale, even deviations of a few millimeters can make proper integration impossible. Engineers stress that tolerance levels in projects of this complexity are extremely tight and that structural safety takes absolute priority.

The beam responsible for the misalignment was sent back to the production facility in Pordenone, where the stadium’s steel prefabricated elements are manufactured. There, it will undergo precision processing – including adjustments to mounting holes – allowing installation to resume in the coming week.

© ACF Fiorentina

Redevelopment of Stadio Artemio Franchi – a key phase of the new stand

The modernization of Stadio Artemio Franchi is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Florence in recent decades. The plan includes a comprehensive reconstruction of the Curva Fiesole, traditionally occupied by the most passionate supporters of ACF Fiorentina.

The new load-bearing structure of the stand consists of reinforced concrete supports and steel beams that will carry the prefabricated seating tiers. Importantly, this structure will also serve as one of the main support points for the so-called copertura nord – the northern roof of the stadium.

Alongside external columns and two internal supports, the steel beams of the Curva Fiesole will be crucial for stabilizing the roof covering the stand, part of the lateral section and half of the Maratona sector.

© ACF Fiorentina

Safety at Fiorentina’s stadium construction site remains the priority

Florence mayor Sara Funaro addressed the situation, emphasizing that when dealing with 24-ton elements there is no room for compromise. According to her statement, the removal of the second beam was a preventive measure fully consistent with the highest safety standards.

Officials underlined that construction works are proceeding according to schedule and that the temporary halt reflects caution rather than deeper structural concerns. Meanwhile, construction teams continue with other phases of the investment to minimize potential delays.

The incident nevertheless caused disappointment among Fiorentina supporters. During a recent league match, the stadium was nearly sold out, and fans had expected to see both beams in place – previously presented as a sign of accelerating progress. Instead, only one steel element was visible, making it difficult to imagine the final shape of the new stand. Although specialists reassure that such technical issues are not unusual in complex engineering projects, supporters’ patience is increasingly being tested.