Barcelona must postpone their eagerly anticipated return to Nou Camp after city officials rejected their permit application Tuesday. The La Liga champions planned to welcome Real Sociedad this Sunday with limited seating for 27,000 spectators. City council concerns about evacuation procedures and additional safety matters prompted the denial. The match will proceed at Olympic Stadium instead, where Barcelona has competed during the past two seasons of renovation work. The club expressed gratitude to fans for their patience throughout this challenging transition period.
Fire department officials identified multiple safety violations that prevented approval for the reduced capacity reopening. Operations director Joan Sentelles maintained that incomplete construction does not compromise spectator safety during the stadium tour Tuesday. The £1.1 billion renovation project began in June 2023 with ambitious plans to create a 105,000-seat venue. Barcelona originally targeted November 2024 for their return to commemorate their 125th anniversary celebration. Deputy mayor Laia Bonet emphasized that public safety remains the primary consideration for all stadium operations.
Fire department officials identified multiple safety violations that prevented approval for the reduced capacity reopening. Operations director Joan Sentelles maintained that incomplete construction does not compromise spectator safety during the stadium tour Tuesday. The £1.1 billion renovation project began in June 2023 with ambitious plans to create a 105,000-seat venue. Barcelona originally targeted November 2024 for their return to commemorate their 125th anniversary celebration. Deputy mayor Laia Bonet emphasized that public safety remains the primary consideration for all stadium operations.
