The future of the Luigi Ferraris Stadium: the project is taking shape

In recent weeks, the municipal council committee has discussed the future of the Luigi Ferraris Stadium, with the participation of Mayor Silvia Salis, Deputy Mayor Alessandro Terrile and the relevant councillors, supported by architect Hembert Penaranda.

The project aims to transform the Ferraris into a modern multi-purpose complex, capable of hosting international football matches following its upgrade to UEFA Category 4, as well as concerts and major events.

Alongside its sporting function, the project includes spaces dedicated to public services, leisure and healthcare, reinforcing the stadium’s role as a vibrant urban space used on a daily basis.

Specialised retail areas are planned, such as merchandise shops and sports medicine centres, with the exclusion of large food outlets, a decision designed to protect local businesses.

The complex will also house the Genoa and Sampdoria museums, skyboxes, panoramic staircases and over 2,000 square metres dedicated to leisure activities.

During the debate, local shopkeepers raised a number of concerns regarding the potential economic impact of the planned new facilities. The mayor, however, reassured them, emphasising that the activities would be closely linked to the world of sport and would not compete directly with the existing commercial sector, with particular attention also being paid to services of social value, such as a sports medical centre dedicated to children.

From a structural point of view, the project involves a reduction in seating capacity from 33,205 to 31,603, in line with higher safety standards. Despite this reduction, comfort and visibility will improve, thanks to the increase in the depth of the seating from 60 to 70 centimetres.

Economically, the project involves granting a 99-year leasehold on the stadium to Genoa and Sampdoria, in return for a total investment of €100 million. The first 50 years are to be rent-free, whilst an annual rent of €1 million is set for the subsequent period.

The vision is for a stadium that is not merely a sports facility, but a place that is lived in every day, capable of generating economic, social and urban value for the whole of Genoa, whilst respecting its history and identity.

Written by: Alessia Malfatto