Milan’s Football Icons Win San Siro Battle as City Approves Sale

After years of debate, Milan’s city council has approved the sale of the iconic San Siro stadium to Inter Milan and AC Milan for €197 million. The decision clears the way for the construction of a new stadium and the eventual demolition of the historic venue.

The vote, which passed after an 11-hour session, grants the clubs ownership of the stadium and surrounding land—over 28 hectares in total. The sale must be finalized by 10 November to avoid a preservation order that would block demolition.

Plans are underway to build a 71,500-seat stadium on adjacent land currently used for parking and public space. Once completed, the existing San Siro will be replaced with green areas, office buildings, and entertainment facilities. The project will be led by architectural firms Foster and Partners and MANICA.

Inter and AC Milan, both owned by American investment groups, will continue playing at San Siro until the new venue is ready in 2031. The move is expected to support Italy’s bid to co-host Euro 2032, with Milan positioned as a potential host city.

The decision sparked political controversy, with critics arguing the sale price was too low and the development plans lacked transparency. Nonetheless, the approval marks a turning point in Milan’s urban and sporting landscape.