Girona FC’s Stadium Dilemma: Balancing Ambition and Tradition
Girona FC faces a pivotal decision: how to unlock latest revenue streams through its stadium. The club is weighing a significant renovation of Montilivi or constructing a brand-new arena, with a potential capacity ranging from 20,000 to 25,000 spectators. The estimated cost for either option exceeds €100 million.
This is a substantial undertaking for a city with a population of 108,352 (as of January 1, 2025), which dreams of becoming a major footballing hub in Spain. The province is deeply passionate about the rojiblanco team, currently battling to maintain its position in La Liga after a successful run that saw them qualify for the Champions League a year and a half ago.
The Club and the City: A Complex Relationship
The connection with Manchester City is fueling ambitious aspirations. Nacho Mas-Bagà, Girona’s director general, emphasizes the need for the city council to take a firm stance on the club’s future growth. Lluc Salellas, the mayor of Girona, is actively exploring three potential locations for a new stadium, pressing for the club to remain within the city limits. The relationship between Girona and Girona FC has experienced periods of tension.
Montilivi, inaugurated in 1970, currently has a maximum capacity of 14,624, hindering the club’s growth potential. Girona FC currently boasts 9,700 members, and club officials envision a new stadium accommodating over 20,000 fans, potentially increasing membership to around 15,000. There is a significant pool of potential supporters in the province eager to join the club.
Geli’s Position and the Concession
Girona FC holds the concession for Montilivi, a municipal stadium, until 2068. Before the addition of temporary stands, the stadium held 9,300 seats, which was also its maximum attendance during Champions League matches last season. Geli has stated a preference to remain at Montilivi, but only if substantial renovations and new stands are undertaken.
“We are very well at Montilivi and do not want to move, but we have other options prepared,” Geli stated. A potential renovation or new build would likely require a temporary relocation of the team. Nearby Figueres’ Municipal Stadium, with a capacity of 9,000, and Palamós Costa Brava, with 6,000 seats, are potential temporary venues.
A Modern Stadium Vision
A new stadium for Girona would include VIP areas, covered seating throughout, and state-of-the-art scoreboards. While the cost would be significant, the club is seeking strong support from the city council and the regional government. Club officials believe building a new stadium is a more viable option than renovating Montilivi.
Girona is closely observing the transformation of the Spotify Camp Nou, Barcelona’s stadium, a much larger and more complex project with a planned capacity of 104,600. The Spotify Camp Nou will feature 9,600 VIP seats, new restrooms, 69 elevators, 78 escalators, and 3,200 parking spaces. Former Barcelona president Joan Laporta believes the renovated stadium will generate between €350 and €400 million annually.
The Growing Orgull Gironí
Girona hopes for a smaller, but still significant, economic impact. The club’s current budget is €75 million (compared to €113 million in the 2024-25 season). Geli aims to elevate the club’s standing in a province increasingly proud of its team. Historically, Girona had more Barcelona FC members than Girona FC members, but the local pride in the rojiblanco is now surging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current capacity of Montilivi Stadium?
A: The current capacity is 14,624.
Q: What is the estimated cost of a new stadium?
A: The estimated cost exceeds €100 million.
Q: When does Girona FC’s concession for Montilivi expire?
A: The concession expires in 2068.
Q: What are some potential temporary venues if Montilivi is renovated?
A: The Municipal Stadium in Figueres (9,000 capacity) and Palamós Costa Brava (6,000 capacity) are potential options.
Did you know? Montilivi Stadium first opened in 1970, hosting a friendly match between Girona and Barcelona.
Pro Tip: Stadium development is often a collaborative effort. Successful projects require strong partnerships between the club, local government, and community stakeholders.
What are your thoughts on Girona FC’s stadium plans? Share your opinions in the comments below!
