UEFA has reportedly unofficially accepted Barcelona’s request to start the Champions League away from home, according to Catalunya Ràdio. This strategic decision means Hansi Flick’s side wouldn’t play their first home match until September 30 or October 1, giving the club approximately two weeks of additional time to secure Camp Nou’s readiness, as the tournament’s opening matches are scheduled for September 16-18.
Table of Contents
The Stadium Dilemma Facing Barcelona
Barcelona have been playing their official home matches at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys throughout the season as they await the renovations of Camp Nou with no full seating capacity available. The club’s ambitious renovation project, which began in June 2023, has encountered multiple delays that have significantly impacted their venue planning for European competitions.
Barcelona’s Camp Nou expansion is experiencing significant delays, with the reopening now likely to be pushed to September 2025 rather than the previously targeted March 2025. Originally scheduled to reopen in November 2024, the project has faced numerous challenges, including technical issues with pitch installation and construction delays.
UEFA’s Regulatory Framework and Barcelona’s Solution
The European governing body maintains strict regulations regarding stadium consistency during competition phases. According to UEFA rules, teams must play all their home matches in the first phase in the same stadium, creating a significant challenge for Barcelona’s transitional period.
According to Catalunya Radio, the club have been given the green light to buy themselves more time to prepare their stadium, whether that be Spotify Camp Nou or Montjuïc. This accommodation allows Barcelona to start their Champions League journey with an away match, providing valuable weeks to secure the necessary permits and complete final preparations for their chosen venue.
The club must inform UEFA by August 28 regarding their designated Champions League venue for the entire group stage, with options limited to either the partially renovated Camp Nou or their current temporary home at Montjuïc.
Current Stadium Status and Timeline
During the renovation, Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys served as Barcelona’s home ground for both the 2023–2024 season and 2024–2025 season. The Olympic Stadium has a capacity of approximately 46,000, significantly less than Camp Nou’s eventual 105,000 capacity.
More than 1,200 workers are helping build the new Camp Nou, and they are currently focusing their work on the upper tier’s metal structure, the partitions inside the stadium, and first and second tier seating placements. The construction represents a massive undertaking with an estimated investment of €1.5 billion.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 2023 | Camp Nou renovation begins |
| August 2024 | UEFA approval for away start |
| August 28, 2024 | Deadline for venue notification |
| September 2024 | Planned first home match |
| December 2024 | Original return target (missed) |
| September 2025 | Current projected return |
| June 2026 | Full renovation completion |
Impact on La Liga and European Competitions
The stadium situation affects not only Champions League fixtures but also domestic matches. Barcelona will play their opening three La Liga matches away from home, with their first potential home game scheduled for the weekend of September 14. The uncertainty extends to whether this fixture will take place at Camp Nou or Montjuïc.
The club originally planned to return on 15 December 2024, but were unable to due to UEFA regulations stating they could not switch venues midway through the league phase of the Champions League. This regulation has forced Barcelona to make definitive decisions about their venue for the entire European campaign.
Financial and Strategic Implications
The venue decision carries significant financial implications for Barcelona. When Camp Nou reopens, it will initially accommodate 60,000 fans while construction continues, ultimately expanding to a capacity of 105,000, making it the largest stadium in Europe. The increased capacity represents substantial revenue potential compared to their current arrangement.
There are 90 lodges and 20 VIP suites at the new Camp Nou, most already booked, with per-person pricing for hospitality packages ranging from $49,000 to $94,000. These premium offerings are expected to generate up to $130 million in yearly revenues for the club.
Stadium Comparison Table
| Stadium | Capacity | Current Status | UEFA Approved |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spotify Camp Nou | 60,000 (initial) / 105,000 (final) | Under renovation | Pending decision |
| Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys | 46,000 | Currently in use | Yes |
| Original Camp Nou | 99,354 | Demolished/renovated | N/A |
Looking Ahead: The Return Timeline
Recent updates suggest a more realistic return timeline for Barcelona. According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, the club intends to resume playing at their iconic stadium in early September during the 2025/26 season. This timeline reflects the complex nature of the renovation project and the various regulatory requirements that must be satisfied.
The club’s leadership remains optimistic about the long-term benefits. Final completion of all renovations is scheduled for June 2026, although the club may return before that date. The phased approach allows Barcelona to gradually increase capacity while ensuring all safety and operational standards are met.
The Path Forward
UEFA’s approval for Barcelona to begin their Champions League campaign away from home represents a pragmatic solution to a complex logistical challenge. This arrangement provides the club with additional time to secure all necessary permits and complete final preparations for their chosen venue, whether that be the renovated Camp Nou or the familiar surroundings of Montjuïc.
The decision underscores the unique circumstances facing Barcelona as they balance ambitious infrastructure development with competitive obligations. As the club prepares for the new season, the focus remains on ensuring optimal conditions for both players and supporters while navigating the regulatory requirements of European competition.
Read More: Liverpool Receives Clear Message: Federico Chiesa Makes U-Turn and Wants to Stay at Anfield
FAQs
When will Barcelona return to Camp Nou permanently?
Current projections indicate Barcelona will return to Camp Nou in early September 2025 for the 2025/26 season, with full completion expected by June 2026.
Can Barcelona change their Champions League venue during the season?
No, UEFA regulations require teams to play all home matches in the league phase at the same stadium, preventing mid-season venue changes.
What is the capacity difference between Montjuïc and the new Camp Nou?
Montjuïc accommodates approximately 46,000 fans, while the renovated Camp Nou will initially hold 60,000, expanding to 105,000 upon completion.
How much has Barcelona invested in the Camp Nou renovation?
The total investment in the renovation project is estimated at €1.5 billion, making it one of Europe’s most ambitious stadium developments.
Why did Barcelona request to start the Champions League away from home?
The request provides additional time to secure necessary permits and complete final preparations for their designated venue, addressing ongoing renovation delays.
