In a recent update, Barcelona confirmed they will continue playing home games at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys into the new year, citing UEFA regulations as one of the reasons for the delay. UEFA rules prevent teams from switching stadiums mid-Champions League campaign, prompting the club to aim for a March return in time for potential knockout-stage matches.
However, according to Marca, the project remains far behind schedule, with critical tasks such as emergency exit installations and turf laying yet to be completed. The stadium is still very much a construction site, and Barcelona's board now acknowledges it would take a "miracle" to meet the March deadline.
Barcelona had hoped to comply with UEFA's rules by returning to the Spotify Nou Camp for the 2025-26 Champions League campaign, should they qualify. For now, they sit second in their group behind Liverpool, making qualification a strong possibility.
The Catalan club vacated the Nou Camp in May 2023 to begin the extensive renovation of their 67-year-old home. The project involves stripping the stadium down to its concrete framework and demolishing the top tier to rebuild a larger third tier, increasing capacity by 6,000 seats. Once completed, the revamped Spotify Nou Camp will boast a 105,000-seat capacity, making it the largest sports venue in Europe.
Barcelona's delays are a blow to their plans, which had initially envisioned a grand reopening as part of their historic anniversary celebrations. Instead, the team faces continued logistical challenges and a prolonged stay at their temporary home.
Despite the setbacks, fans and officials alike remain optimistic about the long-term benefits of the new stadium, which is expected to solidify Barcelona's position as a global footballing powerhouse and generate significant revenue for the club.
