Green light… but only halfway there

Good news — with a catch — for FC Barcelona. The club has officially received the first-occupancy license for the renovated Spotify Camp Nou after approval from the Barcelona City Council. However, this permit only covers phase 1A of the stadium’s reconstruction, meaning the long-awaited homecoming for both the team and the fans will still have to wait.

After several weeks of adjustments to address city requirements, the council has finally given its approval. But the current authorization limits attendance to just 25,991 spectators, including 81 spaces for reduced-mobility fans. For that reason, Barça prefers to hold off until the 1B phase is approved — one that would raise capacity to over 45,000 fans and ensure a full, safe reopening.

Key upgrades and safety improvements

The first phase of the project brought major upgrades: a new players’ tunnel, renovated locker rooms for both home and visiting teams, and significant improvements in comfort, safety, and accessibility. New evacuation routes, reinforced railings, and integrated digital access and ticketing systems have been added, all compatible with ongoing construction and event traffic.

Additionally, the new stadium now features modern sprinkler and fire-suppression systems, enhanced ventilation, and new entrances that meet the latest UEFA safety standards. These upgrades are part of a rigorous validation process that must be completed before Barça can officially reopen its home ground.

Aiming for a November comeback

If everything goes according to plan, Barcelona could return to the Camp Nou by mid-November, with the match against Athletic Club (scheduled for November 22 or 23) marked as the potential reopening date. Until then, Hansi Flick’s men will continue to host their home games at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, including fixtures against Girona, Olympiacos, and Elche.

In the meantime, the club has already launched its 2025-26 season passes, valid for both Montjuïc and the Camp Nou, signaling that the return home is closer than ever — even if culés will have to wait just a little longer to fill their stadium with blaugrana pride once again.