Gran Canaria Stadium Undergoes Major Transformation with 'La Nube' Design

In a significant development for sports infrastructure in the Canary Islands, the future of the Gran Canaria Stadium has been unveiled with the announcement of the winning design, 'La Nube' (The Cloud). This ambitious project is part of the comprehensive expansion and redevelopment of the stadium, aimed at preparing it for the 2030 World Cup.

The Winning Design

'La Nube,' designed by L35 Arquitectos, the same architects behind the modernization of the 78,297-capacity Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, was unanimously selected by a jury. The design garnered an impressive 97.71 out of 100 points, praised for its architectural integration, environmental innovation, and urban connectivity.

Key Features of the New Stadium

The new design features a distinctive white, translucent architecture that will blend seamlessly into its surroundings, creating a unique and environmentally conscious urban microclimate. Advanced acoustic absorption and water and energy-harvesting technologies are integral to the holistic design.

Accessibility has been significantly improved with the introduction of large open spaces in the Northeast and Southwest corners, facilitating smoother entry and exit and integrating seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape. The stadium’s seating capacity will be expanded from 32,426 to over 40,000, with a maximum of 44,484 seats for LaLiga matches, meeting FIFA’s requirements for World Cup quarter-final venues. This expansion will be achieved by extending and repositioning the North and South Stands, enhancing proximity to the pitch without altering the existing levels.

The North Stand will be designed to accommodate alternative events such as concerts through the use of retractable seating. Additionally, the hospitality areas, VIP lounges, and food and beverage services will be significantly upgraded.

Selection Process

The competition, which concluded on December 27, 2024, received nine anonymous proposals. These were evaluated based on three primary criteria: architectural and cultural quality (50 points), technical and economic feasibility (35 points), and urban integration (15 points). The jury, chaired by Antonio Morales and presided over by Aridany Romero, included prominent architects, engineers, and experts in sports infrastructure.

Impact on the Community

The redevelopment of the Gran Canaria Stadium is expected to have a positive impact on the local community, enhancing the city’s sports infrastructure and preparing it for major international events. The stadium, home to the LaLiga team UD Las Palmas, will continue to be a central hub for football enthusiasts in the region.

This transformation underscores the commitment to modernizing and sustaining sports facilities in Spain, particularly in the Canary Islands, and sets a high standard for future stadium designs in the country. As the project progresses, it will be an exciting time for both local residents and expats living in the region, offering a state-of-the-art venue for sports and entertainment.