FC Barcelona has announced a change in its initial plans to return to the Spotify Camp Nou. In an email sent to season ticket holders, the club confirmed that matches will continue to be held at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys at least until mid-February, postponing the highly anticipated return to its iconic stadium.

The decision is attributed to two key factors: UEFA regulations prohibiting stadium changes during the initial phase of the Champions League and the logistical and financial challenges of maintaining two large-scale venues operational simultaneously.

Key Matches in Montjuïc

As a result, matches corresponding to La Liga’s matchdays 21 and 22 against Valencia (January 26) and Alavés (February 2), along with the Champions League group stage clash against Atalanta (January 29), will be played at the Estadi Olímpic.

The first match at Spotify Camp Nou could potentially be the fixture against Rayo Vallecano, scheduled for the weekend of February 16. However, this date has not been officially confirmed by the club. There is also a possibility that the stadium might host a Champions League playoff match in February, should the team require it.

Adjustments to Ticket Pricing

FC Barcelona has announced that ticket prices will be adjusted to compensate season ticket holders for the matches not played at Spotify Camp Nou. The cost of the Valencia and Alavés matches will be deducted, as the Atalanta game was already included in the Estadi Olímpic pass for the first half of the season.

Furthermore, should the team play a Champions League playoff at home in February, this match will be included in the Spotify Camp Nou pass. The validity of the 2024/25 Spotify Camp Nou pass will also be extended based on the effective return date to the stadium, and season ticket holders will be reimbursed proportionally for any missed matches.

The Challenge of Managing Two Stadiums

This decision highlights the challenges FC Barcelona faces in transitioning between two stadiums. The club’s priority appears to be maintaining both sporting and logistical stability during this critical phase of the season while minimizing the impact on its members and season ticket holders.

The return to Spotify Camp Nou will undoubtedly be a landmark moment for the club, but Barcelona seems determined to wait until conditions are optimal for the move.