Barcelona will make their long-anticipated return to the revamped Camp Nou on August 10, hosting a friendly match as part of the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy, the club announced on Wednesday.
The game will mark a symbolic partial reopening of the iconic stadium, which has been undergoing a major overhaul since 2023. While the return represents a significant milestone, Barcelona confirmed that construction will continue in several areas of the stadium.
Ongoing work includes the development of a new third tier, a dual VIP ring, installation of a roof, upgrades to interior spaces, and enhancements to the stadium’s surrounding environment. Although the club did not specify the available seating capacity, Spanish media reports suggest that around 35,000 fans will be allowed into the partially completed stands.
“Barcelona takes a symbolic and emotional step into the future, reclaiming its home in a new era that will culminate with the complete inauguration of the new stadium,” the club said in an official statement.
Barcelona has also secured permission to play their first three La Liga fixtures of the 2024–25 season away from home, giving them an extra month to advance construction.
The renovation project, branded “Espai Barça,” is scheduled for full completion by summer 2026 and will eventually expand the Camp Nou’s capacity to 105,000 — making it one of the largest football stadiums in the world.
During the renovation period, Barcelona have played their home matches at the smaller Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys (Montjuïc Olympic Stadium).
What you should know
Barcelona will return to the newly renovated Camp Nou for a friendly on August 10, though the full stadium won’t be ready until 2026. The project aims to modernize the iconic ground and increase capacity to 105,000, with only 35,000 fans expected for the partial reopening.
