San Siro Fails UEFA Standards: Milan and Inter Push for New Stadium Solution

The structure, inaugurated in 1926 and last renovated in 1990, is considered outdated and inadequate in services. Even with seven years to go, modernization efforts are unlikely to succeed. A full-scale renovation would be disproportionately expensive. Milan and Inter had already communicated this concern to the city council and had asked that the renovation option be scrapped in favor of building a brand-new facility.

Urgency in Milan

While Milan remains a top city in terms of transportation and hospitality infrastructure, UEFA’s verdict leaves only one viable path forward: a new stadium. Both clubs and the municipality had already taken steps toward this solution. The TAR recently rejected an appeal that could have stalled the area sale, and an agreement on the €197 million valuation between the city and clubs has been reached.

Still, uncertainty looms. A major investigation into Milan’s urban planning is affecting hundreds of construction projects, and Mayor Sala himself is under scrutiny. Although San Siro is not directly part of the inquiry, the political storm could delay the council’s final vote scheduled for the end of the month.

UEFA Deadline Looms

The FIGC must submit five stadiums for Euro 2032 by October 2026. The original list included ten cities, but as of now, only Juventus’ Allianz Stadium in Turin fully meets UEFA criteria. Rome’s Stadio Olimpico also needs upgrades, but as a government-run venue, its issues are likely to be resolved.

In contrast, the Meazza has no such leeway. If Milan and Inter fail to finalize and begin construction on a new stadium soon, not only could the city miss out on hosting Euro 2032 matches, but it would also face further embarrassment following the loss of the 2027 Champions League final bid.

Clubs Remain Committed

Despite the challenges, optimism remains. Milan president Paolo Scaroni stated, “I’m optimistic about San Siro. There is shared understanding.” Inter CEO Beppe Marotta confirmed the clubs are willing to invest heavily in the project.

For both clubs, owning a modern stadium is essential to their future plans. The hope is that legal turbulence will not derail their ambitions. But the clock is ticking, and the next few months will be decisive.