Serie A CEO De Siervo: ‘Italy has Europe’s oldest stadiums, we must modernise’

Luigi De Siervo, CEO of Lega Serie A, has issued a stark warning that Italian football risks falling behind its European counterparts due to its antiquated infrastructure, stressing that modern stadiums are indispensable for the sport's future viability.

In a recent interview, De Siervo highlighted the severe extent of the challenge. "Italy boasts the oldest stadiums in Europe, with an average age exceeding 70 years per venue," he stated. "While the situation is slowly beginning to shift, a fully operational new economic model is still at least six or seven years away. In the interim, the disparity with other leagues will only continue to widen."

Serie A CEO De Siervo wants modernisation ahead of Euro 2032

De Siervo underscored the approaching UEFA Euro 2032 co-hosting deadline as an unmissable catalyst for change. This is particularly relevant with construction anticipated soon for new stadiums for Milan and Inter, alongside proposals from both Lazio and Roma to leave the Stadio Olimpico.

"We face a deadline that cannot be ignored: in 2032, we will host the European Championships," De Siervo emphasized. "There are significant projects underway, such as the new Milan stadium, representing an investment of over €1 billion, and crucial plans involving Lazio and Roma. Discussions are also progressing in Genoa, while Florence is undergoing a substantial transformation."

De Siervo further explained the inextricable link between infrastructure upgrades and financial prosperity, especially as clubs strive to diversify their income streams beyond broadcast rights. In Milan, for instance, a completely new San Siro complex is projected to offer vastly increased commercial opportunities and substantially boost revenue. It's no surprise that the clubs collaborated with an architectural firm renowned for its work on major European venues like London's Wembley Stadium.

"We are currently navigating the most challenging phase," he acknowledged. "Our clubs remain heavily dependent on TV revenue, though commercial income is on the rise. Possessing modern, cutting-edge stadiums would significantly accelerate this growth."

He also pointed to an encouraging industry trend: new leadership bringing innovative perspectives to Italian football. "Fortunately, football is now attracting executives from more advanced sectors, introducing fresh expertise, diverse visions, and ambitious initiatives."

For Serie A, modernizing its facilities is no longer an option but a critical imperative for maintaining competitiveness both on and off the pitch.