Why Do Milan Clubs Need a New Stadium?

AC Milan and Inter Milan are set to replace the iconic San Siro stadium with a new arena, a decision that has sparked significant discussion in the world of football. The move aims to modernise the club facilities and create a venue that meets the needs of contemporary sports fans while retaining the rich history associated with the San Siro.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The confirmation of the demolition of the San Siro stadium marks a pivotal moment for both AC Milan and Inter Milan. Discussions surrounding the need for a new stadium have been ongoing for several years, with both clubs recognising that the ageing structure no longer meets modern standards for fans and players alike. The intention is to construct a state-of-the-art facility that will enhance the matchday experience and potentially increase revenues through improved facilities.

Key takeaways

• The San Siro stadium, a historic venue, is set to be demolished.
• AC Milan and Inter Milan are planning to build a new stadium to meet modern standards.
• The decision aims to improve the matchday experience for fans and increase club revenues.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey towards the new stadium has been gradual:

• December 2019: Initial discussions about the future of the San Siro stadium begin.
• 2021: Both clubs announce formal plans to develop a new stadium.
• September 2022: Plans for the new stadium are presented to the local council.
• October 2023: Official confirmation of the demolition of the San Siro stadium.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The official confirmation of the demolition of the San Siro has reignited discussions about the future of football venues in Italy. The clubs are now in the process of finalising designs for the new stadium, which is expected to feature advanced technology and greater seating capacity.

What was already established

It has been widely acknowledged for some time that the San Siro, despite its historical significance, faces numerous challenges regarding infrastructure and facilities. The push for a new venue has been driven by the desire to enhance competitiveness and fan engagement.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK football fans, the redevelopment signifies a shift in how iconic venues are perceived. While many will lament the loss of the San Siro, the new stadium could set a precedent for modernisation in football, influencing how UK clubs approach their own facilities.

Businesses and jobs

The construction of the new stadium is expected to create jobs, not only during the building phase but also in long-term operations. Local businesses may benefit from increased foot traffic on match days, which could bolster the economy around the new venue.

Policy and regulation

The decision to demolish the San Siro and build a new stadium will require compliance with local and national regulations. Both clubs will need to navigate planning permissions and environmental assessments, ensuring that the new project aligns with city development goals.

Numbers that matter

• 60,000: Expected seating capacity of the new stadium, aiming to accommodate more fans than the San Siro.
• €1 billion: Estimated cost of the new stadium project.
• 50%: Potential increase in revenue from enhanced facilities and matchday experiences.

Definitions and jargon buster

• San Siro: A historic football stadium in Milan, home to AC Milan and Inter Milan.
• Matchday experience: The overall experience of fans attending a football match, including facilities, services, and atmosphere.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, fans can expect more details about the design of the new stadium, including potential features and amenities that will be included.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As planning progresses, both clubs will likely engage with fans to gather feedback on the new stadium's design and functionality, ensuring that it meets the needs of supporters.

Signals to watch

• Updates on planning permissions and regulatory approvals.
• Public consultations about the new stadium's design.
• Announcement of construction timelines and milestones.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about developments regarding the new stadium.
• Participate in any public consultations offered by the clubs.
• Engage with community discussions about the impact of the new stadium.

Don’t

• Assume the new stadium will have the same atmosphere as the San Siro.
• Dismiss the potential economic benefits of the new development.
• Ignore the importance of fan feedback in the design process.

Checklist

• Follow official club announcements for the latest updates.
• Attend community meetings regarding the new stadium.
• Consider how the new stadium may affect travel plans on match days.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the decision to build a new stadium has been largely welcomed, there are risks associated with such a significant investment. Economic fluctuations could impact funding, and the planning process may face delays due to regulatory hurdles. Additionally, the emotional attachment many fans have to the San Siro could lead to resistance against the new project.

Bottom line

The decision to demolish the San Siro and construct a new stadium is a significant step for AC Milan and Inter Milan. While it brings potential benefits such as improved facilities and increased revenue, it also poses challenges, particularly regarding fan sentiment and regulatory processes. For UK fans, this evolution in Italian football may serve as a reflection of broader trends in stadium modernisation.

FAQs

Why is the San Siro being demolished?

The San Siro is being demolished to make way for a new stadium that meets modern standards and enhances the matchday experience for fans.

When will the new stadium be completed?

While an exact completion date is not yet confirmed, the clubs are expected to provide updates as planning progresses.

How will this impact fans of AC Milan and Inter Milan?

The new stadium aims to improve facilities and experiences for fans, though there may be concerns regarding the loss of the historic San Siro.