Barcelona expecting major Spotify Camp Nou upgrade before Levante clash | OneFootball

Barcelona are preparing for an important milestone as the club moves closer to increasing the capacity at Spotify Camp Nou. 

With the stadium project continuing, the Catalan giants are now focused on securing the necessary approval that would allow more supporters to return to the stands.

According to a recent report from SPORT, Barcelona expect to obtain the 1C license before the La Liga match against Levante on February 22. 

This approval would allow the stadium’s capacity to rise to more than 62,000 spectators, marking a significant step forward in the club’s return to normal matchday conditions.

What’s the current situation?

The board had initially hoped to secure this license earlier, especially in anticipation of a possible Champions League playoff tie. 

However, Barcelona’s direct qualification for the round of 16 has changed the urgency of the plan. Even so, the club still sees the Levante match as the ideal moment to implement the capacity increase.

City Council technicians in Barcelona are currently reviewing the documentation submitted by the club. 

They are analysing all the details related to affected areas, safety measures, and stadium access points. 

Barcelona are hopeful. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The expectation within the club is that the 1C license will be granted in time for the February 22 fixture.

This particular match could also have additional importance, as it is expected to be the first game at Spotify Camp Nou during the period when presidential pre-candidates collect signatures. 

The increased capacity would allow the candidates aiming to replace Joan Laporta, as well as the current president himself, to present their projects to a larger number of club members.

What now?

At the same time, there are ongoing talks between Barcelona and the Grada d’Animació supporter groups. 

The two sides are currently in a constructive negotiation phase, with the aim of bringing the groups back to their seats as soon as possible.

The conflict has been ongoing since the end of November 2024, meaning it has lasted for more than a year. 

Both the club and the supporter groups are working towards a solution that would finally resolve the situation.

Even if an agreement is reached before the 1C license is granted, the final decision on the return of the Grada d’Animació will still require approval from the Barcelona City Council and the Mossos d’Esquadra.