March 12 – After years of twists and turns, Inter Milan and AC Milan have officially submitted a proposal to acquire the San Siro and surrounding land from the Milan City Council, with plans for a new state-of-the-art stadium. The proposal, which includes a detailed feasibility plan, marks a significant step in a journey that has seen both clubs wrestle with various obstacles and ever-changing plans.
The news breaks after years of wrangling as the two clubs looked outside the city for potential new stadium sites, considering options in the greater metropolitan area. At one point, it seemed that the clubs might go their separate ways.
However, Milan’s mayor Beppe Sala eventually lured both Inter and Milan back to the table with a new proposition: a modern stadium within the existing San Siro complex. Although the idea of renovating the current structure was dismissed by the clubs, they embraced the plan to build a new venue in the same location, preserving the legacy of the San Siro while creating something more suited to the needs of the future.
It is no secret that, despite its glorious history and matchday atmosphere, the San Siro is in dire need of a facelift.
The proposal submitted yesterday includes plans for an innovative and sustainable stadium that would be the focal point of a broader urban regeneration project, designed to boost the local economy and transform the area into a modern hub for both football and the community.
While the financial details remain under wraps, early estimates suggest the project could cost between €1.2 and €1.5 billion, with funding potentially coming from a combination of private investment and commercial deals, though selling naming rights would likely cause an issue to both sets of fans.
Of course, with the new project set to be once again shared between the two clubs, each a footballing juggernaut in its own right, the funding suddenly looks a lot more feasible.
This latest proposal represents the clubs’ renewed effort to remain in Milan and avoid being pushed to the outskirts of the city.
The Municipality of Milan, which owns the land, will need to approve the plan, and there are still hurdles to clear regarding the demolition of the San Siro, which holds cultural significance. Despite these challenges, Inter and AC Milan say that the new proposal will be the key to creating a landmark stadium that will benefit both the clubs and the city for years to come.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1741820063labto1741820063ofdlr1741820063owedi1741820063sni@g1741820063niwe.1741820063yrrah1741820063