JOSÉ ALVALADE STADIUM - Fenwick Iribarren Architects

Sports

Sporting Clube de Portugal sets in motion a new era of transformation, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, sustainability, accessibility, and excellence. Estádio José Alvalade is now poised to become a European benchmark for stadium modernisation and fan experience.

Client SPORTING CLUBE PORTUGAL
Location LISBON PORTUGAL
Size 53.485M₂
Spectators 52.000
Status ON SITE

Estádio José Alvalade, home of Sporting Clube de Portugal, has embarked on an ambitious transformation process that marks a turning point in its history. The project, structured in phases to ensure the Stadium remains operational throughout, aims to modernise and optimise the overall functionality of the complex.
The masterplan follows a long term timeline, broken down into realistic and sustainable phases aligned with the Club’s strategic priorities. The first phase, currently underway, includes the reconfiguration of the stands and the infill of the existing moat, marking a key milestone that addresses both the fan experience and the Stadium’s technical infrastructure.

A New Hospitality Experience and F&B Offering: Versatility, Technology, and cater to each spectator

One of the main project pillars is the complete redefinition of the hospitality model, through a renewed commercial strategy focused on personalisation, technological integration, and the creation of immersive experiences.
The new VIP lounge areas have been conceived as versatile, multidisciplinary, and adaptable spaces capable of hosting multiple uses beyond football matches, establishing them as new landmark hubs within the city of Lisbon. Design, circulation, and service elements have been tailored to suit different visitor profiles, incorporating cutting-edge technology to enrich every moment.

Within this framework, a new Food & Beverage (F&B) offering has been developed to elevate the gastronomic experience in hospitality areas. The offering merges quality, local identity, and operational flexibility, allowing tailored solutions for diverse events and user types. The resulting design responds to modern expectations for hybrid use, strengthening the Stadium’s role as an active, iconic, and functional venue throughout the year, not just on matchdays.

New Stands and Technology-Enhanced Seating

A geometric remodelling of the Stadium bowl has been carried out through the construction of new tiers atop the existing structures. This intervention not only enhances comfort and viewing experiences while optimising spectator proximity to the pitch, but also introduces new seat typologies featuring integrated screens, advanced connectivity systems, and exclusive services. The modular and scalable design allows the Stadium to evolve progressively in response to future market and competition demands.

A More Inclusive and Accessible Stadium

Moat Removal and Pitch Transformation

The most symbolic and transformative intervention is the removal of the perimeter moat, conceived in 2003. Its elimination brings fans closer to the game, enhances atmosphere and visibility, and enables the reintegration of team benches into the stands, providing greater flexibility for different competition formats.
From a technical perspective, 3D parametric models have been developed to balance increased capacity, accessibility, and visibility while preserving FIFA-compliant sightlines and C-values. These simulations allow for optimal seat layout with minimal impact on visibility (seatkills).

A More Efficient, Sustainable, and Technological Pitch Prepared for the FIFA World Cup 2030

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