Inter and Milan's new stadium project unveiled: it will be oval and will be called Generali Stadium

Inter and AC Milan revealed the architectural design for their new shared home, the Generali Stadium, on Thursday afternoon inside the Sala Viscontea of the Castello Sforzesco in Milan. The unveiling marked a definitive step in the long-planned replacement of the historic San Siro ground. According to a joint statement released by the two clubs and their sponsor, the Italian insurance company Generali, the presentation offers the first comprehensive view of a facility intended to honor the legacy of the existing venue while establishing a world-class destination for future football. The new structure is named after its title sponsor and will serve as the primary home for both teams starting with the 2031-32 season. The design features a distinctive elevated bowl shape resting on a podium, characterized by a double curvature that dips near the main stands and rises significantly toward the curves. This configuration reaches a maximum height of 60 meters. The architects described the roofline as having an unmistakable silhouette that frames the two iconic curves, creating a powerful visual identity. Integrated into this double-curved roof are photovoltaic systems that will render the stadium energy self-sufficient, alongside acoustic optimization and other sustainability solutions. The structural core includes a large concrete cross-shaped element that evokes traditional Italian engineering and the craftsmanship associated with the Milan Cathedral. This structure develops from naturally ventilated colonnades, crosses the facade, and culminates in the roof. Entry points are designed in diamond shapes, offering views of both the stadium interior and the surrounding city. Capacity figures were confirmed at 71,500 seats, a reduction from the current San Siro capacity of approximately 75,000. This decrease represents roughly 4,000 fewer general admission tickets, although the total number of corporate seats increases by about 7,000. Consequently, the overall spectator count will be lower than the current venue. The decision to reduce capacity was requested by the clubs from the design team. The stands feature a 37 percent inclination, steeper than the 41 percent slope of the current stadium. This angle is intended to enhance the immersive atmosphere for spectators and reduce external noise perception. During match days, access to the podium supporting the stadium will require a ticket, while entry will remain free on days without events. The podium area will host food and beverage outlets and shopping spaces, with a parking facility constructed beneath it. David Manica, the stadium specialist leading the project alongside architect Lord Norman Foster, emphasized the emotional connection fans share with the current ground. He stated that the design process began with proximity, aiming to bring every seat as close to the field as physically possible. Manica noted that the steepness of the stands is intentional, allowing spectators to sit over the field to create a sense of intimacy. The roof covers the stands completely, leaving only the pitch exposed, a design choice meant to amplify the sound of the crowd. Manica expressed hope that visitors would feel the building living and breathing with them, replicating the excitement found in the current venue. Foster added that the design aims to capture the specific feeling of San Siro, describing it as more than just a building. The project forms part of a broader urban regeneration plan covering 281,000 square meters. The initiative intends to transform the surrounding area into a vibrant district active year-round, integrating new public spaces, green areas, and leisure zones into the city fabric. Beyond football, the stadium is designed to host major concerts, American football matches, and other sporting events. The two clubs acquired the rights to the current stadium and its adjacent parking areas for 197 million euros. The total cost of constructing the new Generali Stadium is estimated at 1.2 billion euros. Construction work is targeted to begin in 2028, following subsequent design phases. The current San Siro, which opened in 1926 and is often referred to as the "Cathedral of Football," will be demolished only after the new facility is completed. Tensions surfaced prior to the official presentation. A small group of Inter supporters gathered at the castle entrance minutes before the 4:30 p.m. start time. They displayed a banner reading "Lights at San Siro, you will never turn them off" and chanted slogans demanding the preservation of their current stadium. The protest lasted only a few minutes before the demonstrators dispersed, allowing the event to proceed without further interruption. The design firm Foster + Partners, led by Lord Norman Foster, collaborated with MANICA, headed by David Manica, on the project. Both professionals have previously worked together on the construction of London's Wembley Stadium. The new venue is positioned as a key attraction for Milan on the global stage, combining sports, culture, and entertainment in a permanent destination.