Barcelona revealed on Wednesday that they will return to the revamped Camp Nou on August 10 for a friendly match, marking a symbolic comeback after years of renovation aimed at modernizing and expanding their legendary stadium.
The much-anticipated Joan Gamper Trophy, held before every season, will be the first event at the partially reopened ground. However, according to a club statement, significant construction efforts will still be ongoing in several sections of the venue.
Among the major works still underway are the new third tier of seating, a two-level VIP section, the installation of a roof, interior enhancements, and upgrades around the stadium’s exterior and infrastructure.
Although Barcelona did not officially disclose how many fans will be allowed in for the friendly, media reports suggest that approximately 35,000 seats will be ready for supporters.
“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 stated.
The team has arranged with La Liga to play their opening three fixtures of the 2025–26 season away from home, allowing an extra month for continued construction work before the full reopening.
The ambitious renovation project, known as “Espai Barca,” began in 2023 and, despite setbacks, is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026. Once finished, it will increase the Camp Nou’s capacity to an impressive 105,000 spectators.
While renovations have been underway, Barcelona has hosted its home fixtures at the smaller Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Montjuïc hill.
