Credit: Twitter
Camp Nou, the storied residence of FC Barcelona since 1957, is undergoing a significant renovation that will make it one of the most cutting-edge and environmentally friendly stadiums in the world. However, as part of the process, the iconic stadium, which has seen some of the greatest moments in football history, will be demolished.
After Barcelona secured approval from the municipal council for the redevelopment project, the demolition work started in June 2023. The team made the decision to play the 2022–2023 season at a nearly full Camp Nou before transferring to the Olympic Stadium in Montjuic for the 2023–2024 season. Camp Nou is not far from the Olympic Stadium, the former home of Barcelona rivals Espanyol and the venue for the Summer Games in 1992.
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Videos of the stadium being reduced to pieces went viral on Monday on social media. Massive cranes were seen demolishing the stadium and reducing it to pieces. The stadium which saw some glorious days was looking raw and naked in the video.
Watch the video here:
Camp Nou's capacity will expand from 99,354 seats to 105,000 seats after a £1.25 billion renovation. In addition, the new stadium will have a slanted solar-paneled roof that will collect rainfall to maintain the pitch and produce electricity for the facility. As part of their sponsorship agreement with the music streaming service, the stadium's name will also be changed to "Spotify Camp Nou".
Barcelona is anticipated to return to their renovated home, which will have a capacity of more than 100k, during the 2025-26 season. The club anticipates that the new stadium will improve the fan and player experience, increase revenue, and strengthen the team's global brand.
The Olympic Stadium will serve as Barcelona's temporary home, which will present both chances and challenges for them. The stadium will be used for other events, and they will need to adjust to a different pitch size and atmosphere. However, they will also get an opportunity to rekindle their relationship with their supporters and win over new ones in a different area of the city.
The 2022-23 La Liga season marked Barcelona's final one at Camp Nou before they said goodbye to their storied venue. They won their 27th league championship to cap up their time at Camp Nou on a triumphant note. In their restored stadium, they also anticipate beginning a new chapter that they hope will bring them future success and happiness.
