Real Madrid’s revamp of its iconic Santiago Bernabéu stadium has sparked protests from local residents due to the noise from concerts and ongoing construction work. The stadium, which has been undergoing extensive renovations, began hosting concerts earlier this year, marking the completion of a multi-year project that included the installation of an undulating metal roof, new lighting, VIP areas, shops, and a retractable pitch.
The renovation aims to transform the stadium, originally inaugurated in 1947 as a football pitch, into a year-round entertainment venue. Pop star Taylor Swift and Grammy-winning Colombian singer Karol G are among the big names who have performed at the newly refurbished stadium this year.
However, residents of the wealthy Chamartín neighborhood in northern Madrid, where the stadium is located, are now voicing their complaints. Previously a peaceful area, the neighborhood has been disturbed by noise from concerts and rehearsals, which residents claim exceeds legal limits. In addition, concertgoers have been reported urinating in doorways, causing further frustration among locals.
Luis Eusa, a university student, said that his grandparents’ apartment, located just across the street from the stadium, “rumbles when there are concerts.” He added, “A lot of elderly people live in the neighborhood, and they are not used to the noise so late in the evening.”
Frustrated residents have even hung banners on their balconies with messages like “NO concerts,” calling for an end to the disturbances.
– Concerts Suspended –
Since its refurbishment, the Santiago Bernabéu stadium has dramatically increased its events, going from hosting around 35 events per year to planning over 300, according to the Association of People Affected by the Bernabéu. This neighborhood group has been vocal in fighting against what they view as “the negative impacts” of the redevelopment.
One of their main concerns is the stadium’s lack of soundproofing and the powerful new loudspeakers, which they argue do not comply with noise regulations. The stadium, which has expanded to 84,000 seats from the previous 81,000, is causing significant disturbance, particularly during concerts.
Real Madrid, which has invested heavily in the renovation, taking out three loans totaling €1.17 billion (around $1.28 billion), intended to turn the stadium into a major revenue generator. However, these plans may now be in jeopardy. Last month, the club announced the suspension of all concerts at the stadium while they work to address the noise concerns. Real Madrid emphasized that they remain committed to ensuring the stadium’s activities are beneficial to Madrid and its residents, though they declined to comment further when contacted by AFP.
– ‘Tricked Us’ –
Residents are growing increasingly skeptical about the club’s promises. Gonzalo, a pensioner walking his dog near the stadium, expressed doubts about Real Madrid and the city’s intentions. “We don’t believe in Real Madrid or the city hall, they sold us that this would be wonderful, and they have tricked us,” he said.
Compounding the situation, a Madrid court issued a temporary halt to construction work on a new underground car park and tunnel that would allow large vehicles, including those transporting concert equipment, to pass under the stadium. The car park, which is being built on public land provided as a concession by Madrid’s city hall, has sparked accusations that Mayor Luis Martinez Almeida, a fan of Real Madrid’s rivals Atletico Madrid, may have favored club president Florentino Perez in awarding the project.
Unlike other stadiums, such as Atletico Madrid’s Metropolitano, which is situated in a spacious area on the outskirts of Madrid, the Santiago Bernabéu is very close to residential buildings, heightening the noise concerns.
Manuel Amaro, a 62-year-old superintendent at a nearby building, summed up the frustration felt by many: “Football is on match day and that’s it,” he said, noting that nobody in the area is happy with the new stadium setup.
