It’s been two and a half years since the team left the stadium. How has this period been for you, and how did you experience it?
Laporta:
“We have to accept criticism. Some of it I understand, though there are others I don’t agree with at all. As I said, it’s been two and a half years away from home — now we’re living the return, which I like to call a return to the future.”
“This project has been awaited for over 15 years. When I was president 13 years ago, the new stadium plan already existed on paper, but for various reasons, it never went beyond the design stage.”
“We had to completely rethink and redesign everything and secure financing in a totally different way than originally planned. It’s been a massive effort, with many people inside the club working tirelessly and with great dedication.”
“Patience was crucial for a project of this scale, but looking at what we’ve achieved, I can say we’ve set a record for execution speed.”
“The stadium is now a tangible reality, even if it’s not yet complete — there’s still a lot to be done, but what we see today is both beautiful and inspiring.”
“When I walk in and see the progress, I feel amazed and proud. Just two weeks ago, the upper stands weren’t even visible, and now they’ve started to take shape. That fills me with excitement and optimism. I visit the site regularly, and I even encourage others to do so, because seeing the progress gives you positive energy and peace of mind — it’s genuinely therapeutic.”
“It’s an extraordinary project in every sense, and I say this sincerely: what we’ve achieved so far is truly impressive and deeply satisfying.”
“We can host matches at Spotify Camp Nou right now with 26,000 fans, but we’re waiting for the Phase 1B permit, which will allow us to welcome 45,000 spectators — that’s the number we want for the first game here.” “This means we’ll complete the remaining work on the north stand. We’re really excited, as we’re doing everything necessary to get the phase 1B approval to open the stands for 45,000 fans.”