AC Milan and Inter Milan have finalised the purchase of the iconic San Siro stadium and confirmed plans to demolish it, replacing the nearly century-old ground with a new, modern 71,500-capacity arena.
The two clubs, who have shared the stadium since 1947, paid €197 million (£173m) to take control of the structure and surrounding land.
The decision is driven by the San Siro’s outdated facilities, which led to its exclusion from consideration for Euro 2032.
The move is seen as essential for Milan and Inter to boost their revenue and compete financially with Europe’s elite, particularly the wealthier Premier League sides.
The new stadium, designed by firms associated with Sir Norman Foster and David Manica, will focus heavily on increasing corporate hospitality and non-matchday income to bridge the significant financial gap facing Italian football.
While acknowledged as a “historic moment” for the clubs, the demolition of the “football cathedral” is a poignant end for a venue steeped in history.
