Iconic World Cup stadium could be made smaller under redevelopment plans with fans left fuming

AN iconic stadium used during the 1990 Italy World Cup could be reduced in capacity under major redevelopment plans, leaving fans furious. Three Group C games plus one Round of 16 tie were played at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa. There are proposals to to reduce the Genoa stadium which hosted games during Italian 90 Credit: © Officina Architetti The stadium was built for the World Cup but has been used by both Genoa and Sampdoria since Credit: Alamy It was rebuilt ahead of the tournament specifically to serve as one of the World Cup venues. And 36 years later, Genoa City Council has approved a plan granting a 90-year right to redevelop the stadium, home of Genoa and Sampdoria, through a public-private partnership. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! The stadium will remain publicly owned, with a tender for the redevelopment expected to be launched by the end of November. Work could begin as early as March 2027 if everything goes to plan. But the biggest flashpoint is capacity. The Ferraris currently holds 33,205 fans, while previous versions of the redevelopment plans have proposed reducing that figure. Genoa supporters have strongly opposed the idea, with fans displaying a “Standing zone” banner during a City Council meeting. The club has sold more than 26,000 season tickets in each of the past three seasons, setting a record of 28,101 for the 2025/26 campaign. Supporters believe introducing safe standing areas could help maintain or even increase capacity, particularly in the stadium’s two biggest stands. Most read in Sport SUN VEGAS WELCOME OFFER: GET UP TO £100 BONUS One fan said: “They can absolutely not reduce this stadium- it’s not fair.” Another said: “At a time when people are increasing their capacity why do they want to reduce ours.” Genoa mayor Silvia Salis has said the city will ask the government to discuss changing Italy‘s rules on standing areas, while also encouraging bidders to find ways to preserve as much capacity as possible. The redevelopment is also significant because Genoa is bidding to host Euro 2032 matches, with the Ferraris among the potential venues. The project has faced further criticism over its impact on local businesses, parking and community groups around the Marassi district. Comment now