📍 Tessera, Italy – October 21, 2025
The future of sports in Venice has officially begun. A groundbreaking ceremony has marked the start of construction for the new Venice Stadium, a modern 18,500-capacity venue located within the Bosco dello Sport, a new 116-hectare sports and leisure hub north of the city.
A New Home for Sports and Events in Venice
Designed by Populous — one of the world’s leading sports architecture firms — in collaboration with Maffeis Engineering, the new stadium will host Serie A football matches, rugby games, and major concerts and live events.
The project was commissioned by a consortium including Costruzioni Bordignon, Fincantieri Infrastrutture, and Ranzato Impianti, who were awarded the construction contract in March 2024.
“This project will create the sports infrastructure that Venice deserves — a world-class, inclusive, and sustainable venue immersed in the natural landscape of the Bosco dello Sport,” said Silvia Prandelli, Senior Principal and General Manager of Populous Italia.
Design Inspired by the Venetian Landscape
The architectural design of the Venice Stadium is inspired by the rhythm and lightness of Venice’s historic palaces. Its vertical façade elements and transparent structure create harmony with the nearby arena and sports facilities within the Bosco dello Sport area.
A crescent-shaped podium will surround the main volume, integrating parking and service areas, while the seating bowl — developed on three sides — ensures perfect sightlines and an intense matchday atmosphere.
The west stand will feature premium VIP hospitality, and a covered concourse will allow fans to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding green spaces.
Accessibility, Flexibility, and Sustainability
The Venice Stadium has been designed to meet the highest standards of inclusivity and sustainability. Every detail — from catering spaces to social areas — aims to create a comfortable and engaging experience for all visitors.
Thanks to its flexible design, the stadium can easily transform to host different types of events, from football and rugby to live music and entertainment, ensuring full-year use.
Engineer Simone Agrondi, Director of the Public Works Department of Venice, described it as “one of the most significant sports infrastructure projects currently under construction in Italy.”
Populous: Redefining Stadium Architecture Worldwide
With over 3,500 projects completed across the globe and a portfolio worth over $60 billion, Populous continues to shape the future of sports and entertainment venues.
In Italy, the firm is also leading the design of new stadiums for AS Roma and Como FC. Among its global landmarks are Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Wembley Stadium, Estadio da Luz, and the upcoming Casablanca Stadium in Morocco — set to become the largest football stadium in the world.
“We are proud to bring our vision to Venice,” added Prandelli. “This stadium will connect sport, community, and nature — a place where fans and families can share unforgettable experiences.”
Project Summary
- Name: Venice Stadium
- Capacity: 18,500 seats
- Location: Bosco dello Sport, Tessera, Venice
- Construction Start: October 2025
- Designers: Populous & Maffeis Engineering
- Consortium: Costruzioni Bordignon, Fincantieri Infrastrutture, Ranzato Impianti
- Main Uses: Serie A football, rugby, concerts, live events
- Area: 116 hectares (Bosco dello Sport)
A New Landmark for Venice
The new Venice Stadium represents a bold step forward for the city — blending modern architecture, environmental respect, and community spirit. Once complete, it will not only serve as the home of top-level sport in Venice, but also as a symbol of how design and nature can coexist in perfect balance.
