Abodi: New AS Roma stadium is essential for Italy to host Euro 2032

Italy’s Minister of Sport, Andrea Abodi, has claimed that the country’s hopes of securing the hosting rights of the European Championship in 2032 may depend on plans for a new stadium for AS Roma being approved and built.

The Giallorossi have been seeking a new stadium for almost 10 years, as they look to move away from the Stadio Olimpico and secure a ground that is owned by the club.

However, whilst previous plans had fallen through, there is hope that owners the Friedkin Group can reach an agreement to build a stadium in the Pietralata district, as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Italy looking to pip Turkey to Euro 2032

“Roma‘s stadium must be done, and I am convinced that it will happen because Euro 2032 will be awarded to us if we can demonstrate reliability, have a clear plan and are not living in dreamland,” Abodi told reporters outside the Italian parliament.

“We have a few months to put together a project on which our reliability will be measured,” he added.

Italy face competition from Turkey as they aim to host a first European Championship since 1980. Russia had also made a bid to win the hosting rights, but following the invasion of Ukraine this was rejected by UEFA in May.

Centenary celebrations marked with new stadium

Roma are looking to build a stadium in the north-eastern part of the city, and it is set to hold 55,000 fans, with the potential to expand to 62,000 for special events.

The project will also include the capacity for a museum, a wellness and entertainment centre, and a medical and fitness centre for the public.

If all goes ahead as planned, work is set to begin in 2024, with a target of opening in time for the Lupi’s centenary in 2027.