Club Atlético River Plate has formally submitted plans for a historic transformation of the Estadio Monumental, featuring a full roof and a new 360-degree perimeter balcony that will raise its capacity to 101,000 spectators. The project, designed with the German firm Schlaich Bergermann Partner, has a 36-month construction timeline and is slated for completion in 2029, in time for the opening match of the 2030 World Cup.

The submission of the project to the judicial authorities marks the administrative start of a renovation that will radically change the stadium's appearance. The new perimeter balcony will add 16,000 seats, with 40,000 locations available at no extra cost to club members. During the works, which will require excavations between 16 and 27 meters deep, the team will not have to relocate its matches more than three times, according to the presented plan.

A project of significant scale

The scale of the intervention is substantial. It will involve moving 17,000 cubic meters of earth and using 1,684 tons of steel alongside 17,230 cubic meters of concrete. The roof structure will be supported by 100 columns. This project aims not only to increase capacity but also to enhance the spectator experience and the venue's versatility for hosting major international events.

While planning for this future, the team is in a good run of form on the pitch. River Plate sits seventh in the Liga Profesional Argentina with 13 points from 9 games, recording 4 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses. Recent form shows three consecutive victories, boosting morale within the squad.

The last result was a 1-2 away win against Atlético Tucumán on September 12, with goals from Tobías Andrada and Thiago Almada. The next fixture is at home against Huracán on September 19, which will be the last match at the Monumental before renovation work begins.

Completion of the project in 2029 will position the Monumental as one of the largest and most modern stadiums in the Americas, ready to host the world's biggest football event. The club has structured the timeline to minimise disruption for its fans and sporting activities, ensuring the team maintains its home in Núñez for most of the construction process.

More detail at Clarin Deportes