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It’s official! The San Siro era is nearing its end. On Wednesday, AC Milan and Inter Milan completed the purchase of the legendary stadium from the Municipality of Milan, setting in motion plans for a brand-new €1.2 billion arena on the city’s western edge. The two Serie A giants announced the “signing of the deed of sale”, just weeks after city officials approved the €197 million ($231 million) land deal following a marathon 11-hour debate. The move came just in time. Had the sale not been finalized by next week, a heritage protection order could have blocked the stadium’s redevelopment. Nicknamed football’s La Scala, the San Siro has stood as one of world football’s most iconic venues — home to 10 combined European titles between the Milanese rivals. Now, both clubs are looking to the future. Plans call for a state-of-the-art, 71,500-seat stadium to be built just west of the current ground, which will remain in use until the new one is complete. Once finished, the old San Siro will be largely demolished, making way for green spaces, offices, and entertainment zones, all designed by architectural powerhouses Foster + Partners and MANICA. The clubs hope to have the new arena ready in time for Euro 2032, which Italy will co-host with Turkey. The Italian Football Federation must confirm its five venues to UEFA by October next year. For now, San Siro’s last major act looms large — it will host the opening ceremony of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics on February 6. (with AFP inputs)
