Barcelona's iconic Camp Nou stadium is undergoing significant renovations, but unresolved issues loom over the construction process. Despite active work on-site, delays and uncertainties threaten to push back the completion timeline.
Key problems contributing to the holdup include the delay concerning the construction of VIP-boxes, which will now require at least three additional months to complete. According to reports, without a finalized fire safety plan, the stadium will not receive the necessary permits to host upcoming matches with the anticipated capacity of 60,000 spectators.
Evacuation routes also present challenges. Currently, the existing passages and exits do not meet safety regulations, and adequate evacuation protocols state spectators must be able to exit within two minutes during emergencies. Failure to comply with these standards could jeopardize the stadium's opening.
The roofing installation, another pivotal aspect of the reconstruction, is scheduled for summer 2026, coinciding with the timeline for completing the third tier of the stadium.
Significantly, the club has already advised La Liga of their intention to play the first three rounds of the new season away from home. This request serves as confirmation of the facility's unreadiness to host fans.
Barcelona officials are optimistic, asserting the project is proceeding as planned, but industry experts highlight the risk of additional delays. Construction and architectural evaluations suggest the August 2026 goal may slip, though the true impact of the unfinished work will become clearer over the coming months.
Given the extent of the issues at hand, fans and stakeholders alike are left wondering whether Barcelona will be ready by the targeted deadlines, or if the club and its supporters must brace themselves for more waiting.