(Rfg) Verona’s Council has officially approved the guidelines for the redevelopment of the iconic Bentegodi Stadium. The project aims to transform the venue into a modern, multifunctional structure through a public-private partnership.
As announced by Mayor Damiano Tommasi, the initiative is part of a broader plan to regenerate the neighborhood. The new facility will not only host football matches but also accommodate basketball, volleyball, tennis, concerts, and social events. The stadium will include spaces for community activities, such as a civic hall, conference rooms, a gym, a library, and even a dormitory for athletes.
A significant feature of the design is its ability to host events year-round, irrespective of weather conditions, thanks to a retractable roof. This will help alleviate the pressure on Verona’s historic Arena and attract major international tours currently bypassing the region due to a lack of suitable venues.
To ensure sustainability, the project will prioritize accessibility. It will limit private car access to tangential routes, leveraging existing parking and promoting public transport, cycling, and walking. The stadium’s proximity to the new rapid transit system and the high-speed train station is also key.
The ambitious plan aligns with UEFA’s requirements for the 2032 European Football Championship, targeting a capacity of 30,001–41,000 spectators and UEFA Category 4 certification. The project must be fully prepared, including investors and administrative approvals, by 2026.
“This is a unique opportunity to create a cutting-edge infrastructure that serves both Verona and Southern Europe,” Mayor Tommasi emphasized. “We aim to be ready and make this vision a reality.”
The search for advanced project proposals will soon begin, marking the first step toward realizing this transformative vision for the city.
