Lucrative Maracanã and high rates mean Flamengo in no rush over new stadium | OneFootball

Flamengo bought the Gasômetro site in 2024 for about R$ 170 million, but is in no rush to start work. After ending a court dispute in late 2025, the target opening shifted from 2029 to 2036.

"The Maracanã is mine for 19 years. I can wait. Why would I build it if its business model does not generate significantly more than the Maracanã does, with no investment from them?" he told AS.

With Brazil’s base rate at 15%, compared with 2% in 2020 to 2021 and 10.5% in mid-2024, borrowing is deemed impractical. "A new stadium would cost more than €500 million, with €75 million a year in interest. If rates return to 2 or 3%, maybe it makes sense."

Meanwhile, Maracanã matchday income rose from R$ 44.5 million in 2024 to R$ 88.2 million in 2025, with per-game profits above R$ 3 million, for example in the 2-0 win over São Paulo.

"With current rates, it is better to keep cash, play at the Maracanã, which is yielding excellent results, and have funds to sign Lucas Paquetá."

Work can only begin after Naturgy relocates a gas substation covering 55% of the site. In a 10 September 2025 notice, the company estimated four years from securing a new location, after which decontamination is still required.

Source: Globo.com