Key Takeaways:
- Barcelona secured the final permit to host matches at a partially opened Camp Nou, starting with Valencia on 14 September
- The initial stadium capacity will be 27,000, set to increase to 60,000 by November
- The redevelopment targets a full capacity of 105,000 seats at Camp Nou by 2026
Permit Approved for Long-Awaited Camp Nou Comeback
Barcelona are set to receive the last required certification to stage their upcoming La Liga home fixture against Valencia at Camp Nou, ending a two-year absence from their iconic stadium. According to Sport, the club anticipates obtaining the crucial works certificate in the coming days, paving the way for ticket sales for the 14 September encounter and marking a significant milestone after relocating to the Estadi Olimpíc Lluis Companys during renovations that began in June 2023.
🚨 CONFIRMED: Barcelona will return to the Spotify Camp Nou against Valencia on September 14th, or on the 21st at the latest.
— @sport pic.twitter.com/y82zLqBPyF
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) September 1, 2025
A Milestone in Barcelona’s Redevelopment Project
The return to Camp Nou signals the completion of a critical phase in Barcelona’s extensive redevelopment scheme, which is projected to span around two additional years. Following prolonged complications and delays, president Joan Laporta’s ambitious vision to revitalise the historic ground is now shifting focus back to home turf, offering a substantial morale boost to both the club and its fanbase as work continues at pace.
Staged Reopening and Expansion Plans
The reintroduction of spectators at Camp Nou will follow a phased approach. The stadium will initially accommodate 27,000 fans before increasing to 45,000 by late October. Capacity will further grow to 60,000 by the end of November. Ultimately, the goal is to reach 105,000 seats by 2026, positioning Camp Nou as Europe’s largest football stadium.
| Phase | Target Date | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Reopening | 14 September | 27,000 |
| Phase 2 | Late October | 45,000 |
| Phase 3 | End of November | 60,000 |
| Full Completion | 2026 | 105,000 |
Next Steps: Ticket Sales and Ongoing Construction
With the principal permit secured, Barcelona now await final validation from local authorities prior to launching ticket sales for the much-anticipated Valencia fixture. Should administrative delays occur, contingency provisions are in place to make a possible return to Camp Nou for the Getafe match on 21 September. Meanwhile, renovation works will push ahead, focusing on the third tier and installation of a new stadium roof, with construction activities running concurrently throughout this reopening phase.
