Barcelona Delays Return to Camp Nou and Extends Montjuïc Contract

According to a report from Agence France-Presse, FC Barcelona issued a statement announcing that its home matches in La Liga against Valencia and Alavés, originally scheduled for January 26 and February 2, will be held at the current Olympic Stadium in Montjuïc.

The club pointed out UEFA regulations that “prevent clubs from changing stadiums during the group stages of the UEFA Champions League” and noted the logistical challenges and extra costs involved if two stadiums were kept open simultaneously. As a result, the next possible match at Camp Nou may be on February 16 against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga.

Last month, Barcelona stated its goal to return to Camp Nou by the end of 2024, with an initial capacity of 62,000 spectators. The full completion of the stadium project, dubbed “Espai Barcelona,” is expected in the summer of 2026, with a total capacity of 105,000 spectators, including the installation of a new roof.

Work on the Camp Nou began in June 2023 but faced delays due to permit complications and complaints about working conditions. As a precautionary measure, Barcelona has requested an extension to its agreement to use the Olympic Stadium in Montjuïc until March 31, 2025.