AC Milan, the historic Serie A football club, has recently unveiled ambitious plans to bid farewell to their iconic home, the San Siro, and embark on the journey of constructing a cutting-edge, 70,000-seat stadium in the southern reaches of the vibrant city of Milan.
This seismic shift in AC Milan’s home turf is rooted in a rich history. The club once held ownership of the San Siro from 1926 to 1935 before ceding control to the Municipality of Milan. For nearly a century, the San Siro has been synonymous with AC Milan, an arena where countless footballing memories were etched into the hearts of fans. Yet, the passage of time has taken its toll, with the stadium last receiving a major facelift during the 1990 World Cup.
The San Siro, a stadium that AC Milan shares with their arch-rivals Inter, has weathered multiple attempts at modernization, all in vain. The age and structural limitations of the stadium became evident in August when a local heritage commission accorded it “cultural interest” status, effectively barring its demolition and prompting both clubs to seek new pastures.
In a vision that extends beyond merely a stadium, AC Milan has set forth plans to establish a club headquarters, a swanky hotel, a club merchandise store, and an engaging museum alongside their new sporting fortress. Paolo Scaroni, the club’s chairman, passionately articulated their commitment to this venture, emphasizing its role in ensuring AC Milan’s growth, both on and off the pitch.
The San Siro, lovingly referred to as Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, has gained global recognition for its distinctive red girders and enchanting spiral towers. However, within its historic confines, the facilities have languished, crying out for much-needed rejuvenation. The astronomical costs involved in refurbishing the existing stadium have led Inter and AC Milan to contemplate alternative avenues for several years.
In 2021, the two Milanese giants had unveiled a plan to cohabit a brand-new, 60,000-seat stadium on the hallowed San Siro grounds, affectionately dubbed ‘The Cathedral.’ Alas, this promising project encountered fierce resistance, legal appeals, and vocal objections, culminating in the recent verdict from the heritage commission, sounding the death knell for any prospects of demolishing the existing stadium.
In response to this unexpected twist of fate, Inter, too, has set its sights on new horizons, contemplating the construction of their individual stadium in Assago, a charming town located to the south of Milan. Thus, as AC Milan and Inter both chart new courses for their footballing destinies, the iconic San Siro stands as a monument to the rich history of Italian football and the passion of its fervent supporters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Milan Stadium Transformation
What prompted AC Milan to consider leaving the San Siro?
AC Milan’s decision to leave the San Siro stemmed from the stadium’s aging infrastructure and a local heritage commission’s declaration of “cultural interest,” preventing its demolition.
Why did the joint project with Inter for ‘The Cathedral’ stadium fail?
The project for ‘The Cathedral,’ a shared stadium on the San Siro grounds, encountered resistance, legal challenges, and objections, ultimately leading to its abandonment.
What are AC Milan’s plans for their new stadium?
AC Milan intends to construct a modern 70,000-seat stadium in the southern part of Milan, along with a club headquarters, hotel, club shop, and museum, as part of a comprehensive vision for the future.
Is Inter Milan also considering a new stadium?
Yes, Inter Milan is evaluating the possibility of building their own stadium in Assago, a town to the south of Milan, in light of the challenges faced with the San Siro redevelopment.
More about Milan Stadium Transformation
- AC Milan’s official announcement about the new stadium
- San Siro: A Look at Its History
- Challenges faced by ‘The Cathedral’ project
- Inter Milan’s consideration of a new stadium
2 comments
inter makin’ their own place too? things r gettin’ interesting in milan footy!
wow, da san siro, such a legend, sad 2 see em leavin. new stadium, hope it’s cool!