Historical transformation in stadiums: towards a sustainable and multifunctional future.

As we enter a year that promises to be historic for sports infrastructure, Deloitte's TMT Predictions report reveals an exciting landscape: by 2025, more than 300 stadiums around the world will be renovated or built from scratch. This transformation goes beyond mere aesthetic improvements; it represents a fundamental evolution in how we conceive these venues, now seen as catalysts for urban regeneration and key tools for harmonizing public and private goals. Stadiums have become multifunctional spaces aimed at meeting the economic, social, and cultural demands of communities. This significant push in stadium renovations will primarily focus on North America and Europe, where nearly 50% of new infrastructure projects are expected to concentrate. Among the iconic venues that will see significant changes are the Tampa Bay Rays stadium and the Rogers Centre, which will include mixed-use areas, affordable housing, and interactive technology to enhance the fan experience. This renewed focus on stadiums aims to attract a new wave of fans, thereby diversifying revenue opportunities to maximize return on investment. In Europe, the emphasis is on football stadiums, where investment is directed at meeting the expectations of an increasingly diverse and demanding audience. The key lies in balancing the rich tradition of the match day experience with the growing entertainment demands of younger generations, such as Generation Z and Generation Alpha. The report highlights that 84% of global sports leaders believe that different consumption preferences will significantly influence the industry in the next five years. This means that new audiences are not just looking to watch a game, but for personalized experiences, with options ranging from gastronomy to music, as well as spaces that promote social interaction. This marks a trend towards the creation of smart and sustainable stadiums, where advanced technologies, such as facial recognition for ticketing and eco-friendly solutions, will help reduce the carbon footprint. The growth of the global smart stadium market is impressive. It is estimated to reach a size of over $38 billion by 2033, a significant jump from the projected $8 billion for 2024. This increase is accompanied by a shift in how clubs can generate revenue, particularly through commercial ventures, which are often underutilized. Tottenham Hotspur, for example, has tripled its commercial revenue since the opening of its new stadium, reaching $266 million in six seasons. Moreover, the remodeling of iconic stadiums, such as the Santiago Bernabéu, has proven to be a key factor for revenue growth in clubs. In the 2023-2024 season, the club surpassed $1 billion in revenue, driven by new commercial projects and the hosting of large-scale events, including concerts that have generated millions in additional income. Another notable aspect of this trend is the rise of women's football, which is motivating clubs to invest in specific infrastructure for the sport. Deloitte notes that this unprecedented growth in interest in women's football is leading to initiatives aimed at capitalizing on this phenomenon. A key example is the FC Barcelona women's stadium, which is part of a broader strategy to meet the growing demand in this area. In the United States, the Kansas City Current has inaugurated the CPKC Stadium, the first venue designed exclusively for a professional women's team, with an investment of $111 million. Such investments not only demonstrate the clubs' commitment to the growth of women's sports but also reflect a broader and more inclusive vision of sports infrastructure. As 2025 approaches, the sports world is preparing for a paradigm shift in how stadiums are designed and utilized. The synergy between public and private investment, the focus on sustainability, and the adaptation to new fan demands are just some of the elements shaping the future of these venues. Undoubtedly, the coming year will mark a milestone in the evolution of sports infrastructure, laying the groundwork for a new era in which stadiums will be much more than just venues for events; they will become dynamic spaces that promote social interaction and community development.