Why Santos chose Neo Química Arena for Coritiba match | OneFootball

Santos have moved their Brasileirão 16th round home match against Coritiba to Neo Química Arena on Sunday 17 at 11:00.

According to Diario Do Peixe, the club aim to bring supporters closer to the pitch during their longest winless run of the year and make it a key fixture.

The plan is to create a 12th man effect, with pitch quality and extensive hospitality also weighing in. Santos will pay rent and operational costs, the rest remains club profit.

The club expect net income to be more than double that at Vila Belmiro. Their biggest profit of 2024 also came at Neo Química, when hosting Red Bull Bragantino in the Paulista. They also want to reach fans in the capital and nearby cities.

Recent São Paulo dates have coincided with growth in the Sócio Rei scheme, and the aim is to retain members there. The match is a day before Brazil’s World Cup call-up, and there is an expectation the timing could lift demand, seen as a last chance for Neymar Jr to persuade Carlo Ancelotti.

Under Marcelo Teixeira, Santos have frequently left Vila Belmiro, including 2024 wins over São Bernardo at Morumbis and Red Bull Bragantino at Neo Química, plus a Série B defeat in Londrina. In 2023 they played at Neo Química, Allianz Parque and Morumbis, and in January drew 0-0 with Bragantino at Neo Química.

Source: Diario Do Peixe