San Siro Set for Demolition After Sale Approval Milan city hall approved the €197 million sale of the iconic San Siro stadium to Inter Milan and AC Milan. After more than 11 hours of heated debate, the resolution passed early Tuesday with 24 votes in favor and 20 against. This decision allows both clubs, now owned by American investment funds, to jointly own the stadium and the surrounding 70-acre site.
Plans for a New Stadium
The clubs will build a modern 71,500-seater arena on nearby land currently used for parking and a local park. Once the new stadium is ready by 2031, they will demolish almost the entire San Siro. The site will then host new parkland, offices, and entertainment facilities designed by Foster and Partners in collaboration with MANICA.
Timeline and Current Use
The sale must finalize before November 10. After that date, a public protection order will block any demolition. Until then, Inter and AC Milan will continue to play at San Siro, which holds up to 75,000 fans.
Political Controversy Surrounding the Deal
The vote has caused political tension in Milan. Critics, including councillors from both right- and left-leaning parties, argue that the deal lacked transparency and undervalued prime city land. Some accuse Mayor Giuseppe Sala of bypassing local democracy to keep both clubs from moving to suburban areas.
Impact on Euro 2032 Hosting
The decision likely pleases the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). Milan is a potential host city for Euro 2032, which Italy will co-host with Turkey. UEFA requires Italy to confirm five stadiums by October 2026 and start construction or redevelopment by March 2027. Currently, only Juventus’ Allianz Stadium in Turin meets UEFA’s hosting standards.
