CORNERFLICK
After 15 years of construction delays, Valencia CF are finally approaching the completion of their long-awaited Nou Mestalla stadium. Once described as the world's largest abandoned stadium, the 70,000-capacity venue is scheduled to become the Spanish club's new home from the 2027–28 season.
Valencia's ambitious stadium project, which remained unfinished for more than a decade amid a series of setbacks, has now reached a decisive stage. Club officials have confirmed the successful completion of the most technically demanding phase of construction, bringing the long-delayed venue a significant step closer to opening.
The latest milestone involved the completion of the so-called "Big Lift", a complex engineering operation regarded as one of the most challenging elements of the entire project.
A 4,800-Tonne Roof Supported by 50 Steel Columns
One of Nou Mestalla's most striking architectural features is its sophisticated roof structure, which will weigh approximately 4,800 tonnes and be supported by 50 steel columns.
The installation has required advanced structural modelling and sophisticated engineering technology to ensure the stability and precision of the enormous structure.
The operation to lift the inner ring and its main cable system took approximately two months to complete. The structure, which had initially been assembled temporarily at pitch level, has now been raised into its permanent position above the stadium.
With this crucial phase completed, construction has moved into the next stage, with the entire roof scheduled to be finished by April 2027.
The remaining work includes installing secondary structural components, technical infrastructure, supporting arches and the external roof covering that will give the stadium its final appearance.
Nou Mestalla Set for Summer 2027 Completion
Valencia are targeting July 2027 for the completion of Nou Mestalla, allowing the club to begin hosting home matches at the new venue from the 2027–28 campaign.
The stadium will have a total capacity of 70,044 spectators, although 7,592 seats will not be available for general sale due to commercial commitments, sponsorship agreements and UEFA requirements.
Supporters have already demonstrated considerable enthusiasm for the move.
During the first phase of the season-ticket application process, Valencia received 53,466 requests, highlighting the anticipation surrounding the club's long-awaited relocation.
The process has now entered its second stage, allowing applicants to select their preferred seats inside the new stadium.
World Cup 2030 Ambitions
Beyond becoming Valencia's new home, Nou Mestalla is also among the proposed venues being considered for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Following the withdrawal of Málaga and A Coruña from the bidding process, the stadium was added to the list of potential host venues alongside Balaídos in Vigo.
Its completion would mark the end of one of European football's longest-running unfinished stadium projects and represent a major milestone in Valencia's history.
For a club seeking to restore its standing in Spanish and European football, the opening of Nou Mestalla could signal the beginning of a new era.
After years of uncertainty, financial difficulties and construction delays, Valencia's ambitious stadium dream is finally moving closer to becoming a reality.