San Siro Set for Demolition After Inter and AC Milan Buyout

The San Siro, one of the world’s most iconic football stadiums, is officially on course for demolition after Milan city hall approved its sale to Inter and AC Milan.

According to a report by VANGUARD, the decision came after more than 11 hours of debate, ending with 24 votes in favor and 20 against. The €197 million ($231 million) deal ensures that both clubs will take ownership of the historic stadium and adjacent land, marking the end of an era for the ground nicknamed “football’s La Scala.”

Both Inter and AC Milan had threatened to leave the city if the sale was not approved, after previously exploring sites in nearby suburbs. The final vote was confirmed just before 4:00 am (0200 GMT), securing approval for a €1.2 billion redevelopment project that has been years in the making.

“As long as the sale is completed by November 10 when a public building protection order preventing the demolition of the San Siro comes into effect Inter and AC Milan will take control of just over 28 hectares (70 acres) of public land in a densely populated area on the western outskirts of Milan,” the report noted.

A new 71,500-capacity stadium will be built on the land immediately west of the San Siro, currently used as parking and a park. Designed by architectural firms Foster and Partners and MANICA, the project also includes office spaces, entertainment facilities, and new parkland.

The current San Siro will continue to host matches until 2031, when the clubs expect the new stadium to be completed.

The vote was aided by abstentions from councillors of the right-wing Forza Italian party, while hard-right League, Brothers of Italy, and some left-leaning members opposed the deal. Critics accused Mayor Giuseppe Sala of bypassing local democracy and argued that the sale price was too low for prime real estate.

Despite the controversy, the decision is expected to please the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), as Milan is among the potential hosts for Euro 2032. FIGC will submit its final list of stadiums to UEFA by October 2026, with work required to begin no later than March 2027.

For now, the San Siro, a stadium that has welcomed millions of fans and legendary players edges closer to its final chapter, as Milan looks ahead to a modern football future.