Quick Read
- Barcelona’s return to Spotify Camp Nou is delayed until the 2025-26 season.
- UEFA inspectors visited the stadium to assess readiness for Champions League matches.
- The club awaits final approvals from the Barcelona City Council and Fire Department.
- A test event with 25,000 fans is planned for August 10, 2025.
FC Barcelona’s highly anticipated return to Spotify Camp Nou has been delayed until the start of the 2025-26 season, as the club works to finalize necessary approvals and complete renovations. The delay comes amid ongoing inspections by UEFA and pending permits from local authorities, ensuring the stadium meets all safety and operational standards.
UEFA Inspections and Champions League Readiness
On June 17, 2025, UEFA inspectors visited Spotify Camp Nou to assess its readiness for hosting Champions League matches. According to Mundo Deportivo, the visit focused on key areas such as the provisional press boxes, mixed zone, and TV broadcasting facilities. The inspectors confirmed that the stadium’s infrastructure meets UEFA’s requirements, but a final review will be conducted before the Champions League begins in September.
The first European match at the renovated stadium is tentatively scheduled for September 16, 17, or 18, 2025, with alternative dates set for September 30 or October 1, depending on the Champions League draw on August 28. Unlike LaLiga, Barcelona cannot request a delay for their European home debut, adding pressure to meet all deadlines.
City Council and Fire Department Approvals
While UEFA’s approval is crucial, the final green light for reopening Spotify Camp Nou rests with the Barcelona City Council and the Fire Department. On June 18, 2025, the club submitted updated documents to secure construction and activity permits, as well as first-occupancy authorization from the Les Corts district. These permits are essential for hosting events, including the Joan Gamper Trophy match on August 10, 2025, which is expected to draw 25,000 spectators.
President Joan Laporta announced the test event during a recent address to the club’s Senate, emphasizing its importance in ensuring smooth matchday operations. A simulation involving 1,000 participants, including media, will also be conducted in late July to test the stadium’s readiness. If necessary, a second drill will take place in early August.
Financial and Operational Challenges
The delay in reopening Spotify Camp Nou highlights the financial and operational challenges faced by Barcelona. According to Coliseum-online, LaLiga clubs’ aggregate revenue increased by 6% in the 2023-24 season, with Barcelona and Real Madrid accounting for nearly half of the total. However, the club’s significant investment in stadium renovations has placed additional strain on its finances.
Despite these challenges, the renovated stadium is expected to boost matchday revenue significantly. The official season opener will welcome 62,000 fans, with seating available across the first and second tiers. This capacity increase is part of Barcelona’s broader strategy to diversify revenue streams and enhance the fan experience.
Barcelona’s delayed return to Spotify Camp Nou underscores the complexities of modern stadium renovations. While the club is making progress, the final approvals and test events will be critical to ensuring a successful reopening. Fans eagerly await the day they can once again fill the stands of their beloved stadium.