Real Madrid present plan for 'dramatic transformation' of Santiago Bernabeu
As clubs look for more and more ways to maximize revenues and revitalize fan interest, a common method for doing both has been to renovate or construct brand new stadiums. As one of the world's richest and most popular clubs, Real Madrid aren't necessarily hurting when it comes to revenue or fan interest, but it never hurts to give it a shot. On Tuesday, the club announced they've finally reached an agreement with the city to give the Santiago Bernabeu a major facelift.
"We will see a dramatic transformation of the Santiago Bernabéu," club president Florentino Perez said in a club statement. "With this agreement we will start a process of modernization and transformation that will convert the stadium in to an avant-garde architectural icon."
The most stunning addition to the Bernabeu, which was last renovated in 2001 and expanded in 2011, is a retractable roof over the grounds. The entire building facade would be redone as well, ditching the concrete exterior for a futuristic metallic look.
The renovation will cost a reported 400 million euros, with construction set to start next year. If all goes smoothly, the entire project is expected the be completed by 2020.
While it might seem like overkill to overhaul a stadium that just had a renovation 15 years ago and expansion five years ago, just take a look at what Real Madrid's rivals are in the midst of. When it comes to these two clubs, if you're not moving forward you're moving backward.
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