FC Barcelona formally submitted the stadium’s candidacy to UEFA following a coordinated decision involving the Barcelona City Council, the Generalitat de Catalunya, and the Spanish Government, as reported by SPORT. The final decision rests with the UEFA Executive Committee, which will meet on September 15 in Saloniki, Greece, to select the host venue.
Bid Details and Capacity Projections
According to SPORT, UEFA regards the modernized Spotify Camp Nou as a strong contender because it will feature the largest capacity of any stadium in Europe upon completion. Stadium renovations will increase VIP seating, introducing a double ring of private boxes situated between the second and third tiers.
The venue faces competition from Wembley Stadium in London.
Construction Timeline and Infrastructure
Although the overarching Espai Barça development carries a target completion date of 2028, SPORT reports that the stadium’s unfinished status does not present an obstacle to the bid. UEFA officials are familiar with the project details, including the scheduled installation of the stadium roof next summer, and have conducted regular site visits related to Barcelona’s separate plans to return to Champions League fixtures at the ground by December 2025.
Beyond the stadium itself, SPORT notes that Barcelona possesses the necessary municipal infrastructure, including hotel capacity and airport logistics, to satisfy UEFA requirements for a major European final.
Historical Context of Finals at Camp Nou
If the bid succeeds, it will mark the third time the stadium has hosted a European Cup or Champions League final, and the first time during the 21st century, according to SPORT. The ground previously hosted the 1989 final where AC Milan defeated Steaua București 4–0, and the 1999 final where Manchester United secured a 2–1 victory against FC Bayern Munich.
The upcoming September 15 executive meeting in Saloniki will determine whether the Catalan venue officially secures the 2029 fixture.
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