Barcelona anticipates increasing the capacity at Spotify Camp Nou to over 62,000 spectators before their February 22 La Liga match against Levante, a significant step toward restoring a vibrant matchday atmosphere.
Capacity Increase Imminent for Catalan Giants
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The club is awaiting final approval from Barcelona City Council.
- Barcelona expects to receive the necessary 1C license before the Levante game.
- The increase in capacity is a key milestone in the stadium’s ongoing renovation project.
- Negotiations continue with supporter groups regarding their return to designated areas.
- The expanded seating could also impact the upcoming presidential pre-candidate signature collection process.
The Catalan club is currently awaiting the granting of a 1C license, which, if approved, will allow for an increase in stadium capacity to more than 62,000 fans. The board initially hoped to secure this license earlier, anticipating a potential Champions League playoff tie, but Barcelona’s direct qualification for the round of 16 has shifted the timeline. Despite this, the match against Levante remains the target date for implementing the change.
City Council technicians in Barcelona are meticulously reviewing the documentation submitted by the club, scrutinizing details related to affected areas, safety protocols, and stadium access points. The expectation within the club is that the license will be granted in time for the February 22 fixture.
Beyond Capacity: Presidential Implications
The February 22 match is poised to be particularly significant as it is expected to coincide with the start of the signature collection period for presidential pre-candidates. The increased capacity will provide a larger platform for those aiming to replace Joan Laporta, as well as the current president himself, to present their platforms to club members.
Ongoing Discussions with Supporters
Simultaneously, Barcelona is engaged in ongoing negotiations with the Grada d’Animació supporter groups. The discussions, described as constructive, aim to resolve a conflict that has persisted since the end of November 2024 – lasting for over a year. While both parties are working towards a solution, any agreement regarding the return of the Grada d’Animació will still require final approval from the Barcelona City Council and the Mossos d’Esquadra.
