Barcelona’s Return to Spotify Camp Nou: Renovations and Capacity Updates

Since the commencement of the 2023/24 season, FC Barcelona has been hosting its home games at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium, which accommodates 55,926 spectators. Initially, the plan was to utilize the Olympic Stadium for the entirety of this season as well as the first half of the previous season before transitioning back to the Spotify Camp Nou.

However, a series of missed deadlines has compelled Barcelona to extend their stay at the Olympic venue longer than anticipated. Although a permit was granted for the stadium’s reopening last month, the capacity was limited to just 25,991, which the club deemed financially unviable.

In response, Barcelona organized a test event at the iconic stadium, attracting 23,000 fans—a turnout that club president Joan Laporta celebrated as a significant success. “The players and Hansi [Flick] performed admirably in front of their supporters. They are eager to return, and today demonstrated that we are very close,” Laporta stated following the open training session, an essential step in securing License 1B, which would allow for an additional stand to be opened, thereby substantially increasing capacity.

Earlier this month, Barcelona executive Joan Sentelles, responsible for overseeing the renovations, remarked, “Our goal is to have it ready for the match against Athletic Club. Upon receiving the 1B license, we will open the Lateral Stand, which will bring our capacity in line with that of the Olympic Stadium. At that point, it would be illogical to continue playing there—our matches will be held here [at Camp Nou].”

Laporta further asserted, “I have not been informed of any issues so far. We have the initial occupancy permit that accommodates 27,000 spectators, and we are awaiting the 1B license to allow 45,000 attendees, which would enable the use of the entire stadium except for the North Stand.

“We are diligently working to ensure that, upon receiving the 1B permit, we can resume play. If we obtain it next week, we could potentially play against Athletic Club. We are committed to adhering to the timeline.”

On Monday, Barcelona confirmed on their official X account that Spotify Camp Nou would reopen for fans: “We’ve dreamt of this return. Now, it’s here. We’re back home. Back at Spotify Camp Nou.” Renovation efforts will persist, with Saturday’s game capped at a capacity of 45,401 as Barcelona aims for victory against Athletic Club following a recent 4-2 win against Celta Vigo, marking back-to-back league victories under Hansi Flick for the first time since September.

Laporta expressed his emotional connection to the stadium after the test event, noting, “Upon entering Spotify Camp Nou, I was overwhelmed with memories. Yet, I also envision the present and future. This is a legacy for the next generation of Barca supporters.”

He further characterized the new stadium as “an architectural jewel that will be the best in the world,” emphasizing its ability to preserve the magic of historic moments while embodying a renewed spirit. “It’s akin to returning to the future.”

Renovations are slated to continue until 2027, with the final goal of increasing Spotify Camp Nou’s capacity to 105,000. However, it remains uncertain whether Barcelona will be able to host Champions League matches at their home ground or if these fixtures will be held at the Olympic Stadium. Their next home European match is scheduled for December 9 against German side Eintracht Frankfurt.

UEFA’s regulations regarding mid-season stadium changes differ from those of La Liga, although Tottenham Hotspur was allowed to transition from Wembley to their new stadium during the 2018/19 season. Laporta is confident that plans are in place to meet all requirements set forth by governing bodies.