The New Spotify Camp Nou Advances in 2025: A 21st Century Stadium Driven by BIM Methodology
The renovation of the Spotify Camp Nou, one of Europe’s most ambitious sports infrastructure projects, continues its progress throughout 2025, establishing itself as a landmark development for both FC Barcelona and the construction industry. With a partial reopening scheduled for September—coinciding with the start of the 2025–2026 season—the new stadium is set to become not only an architectural icon but also a pioneering example of digital transformation, powered by Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology.
A Stadium in Full Transformation
As of today, construction works have advanced significantly, though not without challenges. The original plan aimed for the team’s return to the stadium in March 2025, but several factors have pushed that goal back to September. Nonetheless, FC Barcelona remains committed to delivering a modern, safe, and sustainable venue that meets the highest operational standards.
The first and second tiers of seating are already well underway, with approximately 39,000 seats installed. The hybrid pitch—equipped with advanced aeration, drainage, and climate-control systems—is currently being laid. Meanwhile, progress continues in interior areas, including concourses, restrooms, and food service facilities.
The VIP ring structure between the second and third tiers is now taking shape, although still in the concrete-pouring phase. The installation of the stadium’s iconic roof, known as the “Big Lift,” has been postponed to summer 2026, pending completion of the third tier’s structure.
Currently, nearly 3,000 workers are involved in the project, operating under a special permit to work six days a week in 24-hour shifts. Despite this effort, the project has faced several obstacles: material shortages, a lack of skilled labor, and unforeseen tasks have altered the original timeline. Labor safety incidents and delays in emergency exits and pitch installation have also presented notable challenges.
BIM: The Digital Engine of the New Spotify Camp Nou
Beyond logistical and construction-related hurdles, the true game-changer behind the new Spotify Camp Nou is its digital management. The application of BIM methodology has been instrumental in revolutionizing the way large-scale infrastructure is designed, coordinated, and executed.
Using BIM, the club has developed a comprehensive 3D digital model of the stadium, integrating data across structural elements, materials, costs, energy performance, construction phases, and facility management. This integrated vision enables conflict detection, improved contractor coordination, and optimization of every stage of the project.
The results are significant. According to the technical team, BIM has contributed to reducing construction costs by up to 20% and is expected to save more than 15% annually in operational and maintenance expenses. Additionally, over 5,000 laser scans of the old Spotify Camp Nou have been conducted since 2014, providing a detailed digital record to inform planning and decision-making throughout the transformation.
Another key advantage is real-time progress tracking. Thanks to collaborative BIM platforms, both club managers and investors can monitor the construction process, make data-driven decisions, and dynamically adjust resources and timelines as needed—ensuring high levels of transparency and control.
A Beacon for the Future of Construction
The Spotify Camp Nou project is not only a transformation for FC Barcelona but also a milestone for the entire AEC sector (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction). By embracing BIM, this project has become a benchmark for innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, serving as inspiration for other large-scale developments across Spain and Europe.
In an era where digital transformation is no longer optional, the Catalan club is proving that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand. The new Spotify Camp Nou will not only be a temple of football, but also a symbol of how technology is reshaping the future of construction.
