FC Barcelona is set to make another temporary move to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Montjuïc during the 2027-28 season. This relocation is necessitated by continued delays in the redevelopment of their iconic Camp Nou stadium, a project whose total cost is now approaching €2 billion (approximately ₹21,793 crore).
Club treasurer Ferran Olivé confirmed at a general assembly that while Barcelona will complete the 2026-27 season at a partially reopened Camp Nou, home matches will then shift to the Olympic Stadium from around June 2027 until January 2028. This move is critical for the installation of the new roof structure, which requires extensive construction directly over the pitch area.
Return to Montjuïc for Key Works
This will mark Barcelona's second temporary residency at the Montjuïc venue, having previously played there for two and a half years during an earlier phase of the Camp Nou renovation. The club has already secured an agreement with the city council for the reuse of the stadium, ensuring a smooth transition for their home fixtures.
Olivé stated, "Barça would finish this 2026–27 season at the Camp Nou but would then have to play away from the stadium for around half of 2027–28," expressing the club's hope to return to Camp Nou by January 2028.
Escalating Project Costs and Debt Burden
The total cost of the Espai Barça stadium project has effectively tripled since its initial proposal in 2014, with repeated delays and design modifications significantly driving up expenses. To fund the latest phase of works, club members approved an additional €510 million (approximately ₹55,725 crore) financing package.
This new borrowing pushes the overall Espai Barça budget to about €1.8 billion (approximately ₹19,666 crore), contributing to the club’s total debt burden, which could reach approximately €2.3 billion (approximately ₹25,128 crore) depending on repayment schedules. Of the additional funds, €300 million is specifically allocated for Camp Nou construction, with €210 million designated for operational needs.
Revised Completion Timeline and Future Plans
Under the updated schedule, Barcelona anticipates returning to Camp Nou midway through the 2027-28 season with a capacity of approximately 95,000 spectators. The full 105,000-seat configuration is projected to be completed ahead of the 2028-29 season.
The newly renovated Camp Nou is slated to host the 2029 Champions League final, providing the club with a firm deadline to ensure the stadium's complete delivery and readiness.