The Cagliari stadium project will receive an additional €50 million in public funding following a decision to remove planned commercial spaces from the design, according to reports in L’Unione Sarda. The funds, allocated by the Sardinia Region, are intended to compensate for the loss of revenue previously expected from the retail areas.
The modification to the stadium plan aims to protect local businesses in the Cagliari area. Eliminating the commercial spaces necessitates financial compensation, placing an additional burden on public funds and prompting debate over the overall cost of the new infrastructure. The revised financial plan details this shift in funding.
Marco Bellinazzo, a sports economy journalist for Il Sole 24 Ore, commented on the situation, noting that stadium construction ideally shouldn’t rely on public funds to maintain competitive fairness. However, he acknowledged that Italy’s ‘Legge Stadi’ permits co-financing, specifically to prevent additional elements that could negatively impact local economies. Bellinazzo suggests this substantial public contribution likely precludes a future private sale of the stadium, potentially favoring a long-term lease arrangement, known as a ‘diritto di superficie.’
The development comes as Cagliari navigate other transfer activity, with reports linking midfielder Alessandro Deiola to Atalanta. Sky Sports Italia reported earlier today that Atalanta are accelerating their pursuit of the 28-year-old, with a meeting between coach Gian Piero Gasperini and the player reportedly taking place. The club is also considering options to replace goalkeeper Alessio Cragno, with Alessandro Daffara emerging as a potential target. Inter are also reportedly interested in signing Cagliari’s right-back, Fabio Parisi, and are preparing a bid for the player.
The stadium project has been a long-running saga for Cagliari, with previous iterations facing delays and revisions. This latest development represents a significant financial commitment from the regional government and will shape the future of the club’s home ground.
