Botanical: Kostas Hadzidakis inspected the works - Pictures from the new Panathinaikos stadium

Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis made headlines when he announced an international tender for a major urban regeneration project surrounding the new Panathinaikos stadium in the Votanikos-Elaionas area of inner-western Athens. The announcement came during his visit to the construction site, where he reviewed the progress of the ongoing works and discussed plans for the future development of the area. The project spans 500 hectares and aims to transform the region into a modern hub of green spaces and sports infrastructure, reflecting a broader vision for revitalizing the Greek capital.

The stadium itself, currently under construction, is set to be completed by the summer of 2027, with the club planning to move there for the 2027-28 season. Hatzidakis emphasized that the stadium's completion marks a significant milestone for both the club and the city of Athens. He noted that the new venue will have a capacity of 39,074 seats, making it one of the largest stadiums in Greece. The timing of the stadium’s opening aligns with the club’s temporary relocation strategy, which sees it playing all home matches at the Athens Olympic Stadium (OAKA) starting from the upcoming season until its permanent move to the new facility.

This shift in hosting arrangements follows a pattern of alternating venues for Panathinaikos over the years. For instance, during the 2025-26 season, the club played domestic matches at its historic Apostolos Nikolaidis stadium, also known as "Leoforos," while European competitions were held at OAKA. The decision to temporarily use OAKA reflects logistical considerations as the new stadium nears completion, ensuring continuity in the club’s operations without disrupting its competitive calendar.

The regeneration project around the new stadium includes not just the stadium itself but also the development of the club’s amateur sports facilities in the vicinity. These facilities are intended to serve as training grounds and community hubs, further integrating the club into the local fabric of the area. The involvement of the government in such a large-scale initiative underscores the significance of the project, which is seen as a catalyst for economic growth and urban renewal in the region.

During his visit, Hatzidakis was given a detailed briefing on the current state of the construction work, including updates on the progress of the stadium’s design and structural elements. He also had the opportunity to view internal images of the partially built stadium, which provide insight into the scale and ambition of the project. The visual documentation captured during the visit highlights how the new stadium will look once completed, offering a glimpse into the future of football in Athens.

The regeneration plan extends beyond the immediate vicinity of the stadium, encompassing a wide range of improvements to the surrounding environment. This includes the creation of public parks, recreational areas, and improved transportation links, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Such developments are part of a larger effort to make Athens more livable and attractive, positioning it as a modern European capital capable of competing with other major cities in terms of urban amenities and sustainability.

Looking ahead, the successful execution of this project could set a precedent for similar initiatives in other parts of the country. It also represents a strategic investment in the long-term viability of the Panathinaikos club, which has been a cornerstone of Greek football for decades. As the tender process begins, stakeholders from around the world will have the chance to contribute their expertise and resources to shape the future of this iconic sporting landmark.