Barcelona Unveils Grand Lionel Messi Tribute Plans for New Camp Nou Stadium

Barcelona are planning to organize a special "homage" for Lionel Messi once the refurbished Camp Nou reopens, celebrating his legendary career at the club.

The iconic stadium has been without matches since the conclusion of the 2022–23 season as renovation work continues, though there's optimism that a limited-capacity venue will be prepared for this year's Joan Gamper Trophy on August 10.

The Catalan club has already made arrangements to play their opening three La Liga fixtures away from home, providing additional time to ensure the ground is match-ready for competitive action.

Safety assessments must be completed prior to the Joan Gamper Trophy encounter against Como, with municipal approval required to establish the precise attendance figure. Vice-president Elena Fort has indicated 60,000 as the goal, while emphasizing the need for "realistic" expectations regarding numbers.

The primary obstacles involve "entry points and safety measures" during the construction phase. This ambitious target has faced scrutiny, with the compact Estadi Johan Cruyff serving as an alternative venue if needed.

Fort revealed that Messi's tribute ceremony will only occur once Camp Nou reaches full completion, potentially not until 2026. The roofing structure may still require finishing touches even then.

"Leo Messi's homage at Camp Nou must happen when the venue is completely ready," Fort explained to La Vanguardia. "It's guaranteed to occur because he represents the greatest player in Barcelona's history."

When questioned about whether next summer's Joan Gamper Trophy would take place in a completed Camp Nou, Fort acknowledged that final details would still be pending.

"I believe we can declare the stadium finished by summer 2026," Fort stated. "Aesthetically, it won't be entirely complete; the roof structure will require closure. However, all elements will be in place."

Messi established a club record with 778 matches for Barcelona from 2004 to 2021, netting 672 goals across those 17 seasons, another institutional milestone. His departure occurred solely because Barcelona's financial difficulties prevented the registration of an agreed contract extension.

Following two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain, Messi received an opportunity to return to the Catalans but declined due to doubts about the club's ability to honor their commitment. Barcelona's setback became Inter Miami's opportunity.