Barcelona's Camp Nou Transformation Set to Shake Up Presidential Race
Barcelona are said to be targeting the acquisition of required permits to boost Camp Nou's seating capacity before the end of February.
The Catalan club spent two and a half years competing at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys during Camp Nou's reconstruction to enhance the capacity of Europe's biggest stadium. Multiple postponements prolonged the undertaking, but Barcelona made their homecoming before a limited audience of 45,157 in November, celebrating the momentous occasion with a commanding 4–0 victory against Athletic Club.
The venue is projected to ultimately accommodate more than 105,000 supporters, though the process of completely unveiling the renovated Camp Nou is happening step by step. The current Spanish title holders might experience a significant enhancement in the upcoming weeks.
Based on reports from SPORT, Barcelona anticipate securing the 1C permit required to welcome 62,000 spectators into the ground by their match against Levante on Feb. 22. The organization was eager to receive the essential authorization ahead of a possible Champions League playoff encounter, but their schedule was fortunately modified since Hansi Flick's team secured direct qualification to the round of 16.
How Camp Nou's Increased Capacity Could Affect Presidential Elections
How Camp Nou's Enhanced Capacity Might Impact Presidential Elections
With existing club president Joan Laporta's five-year term concluding this year, the electoral process to select a new president—or to retain Laporta—is scheduled for Mar. 15. Prior to this crucial date, every candidate seeking to participate must gather 2,321 signatures from club members.
Alongside Laporta, Víctor Font, Marc Ciria, Xavier Vilajoana and Joan Camprubí have all declared their presidential ambitions. Several of these emerging candidates have been vocally disapproving of Laporta's leadership, primarily troubled by economic difficulties.
When Barcelona face Levante at Camp Nou, the signature collection phase will have already commenced. If the stadium successfully raises its capacity to 62,000, the candidates will gain the chance to share their visions before significantly more club members than initially expected.
Barcelona's Spotless Record Since Returning to Camp Nou
Barcelona's Perfect Performance Since Camp Nou Return
While potential political developments occur in the Camp Nou stands, Flick's squad will aim to maintain their outstanding form on the field. The Catalans have secured victory in 16 of their previous 17 matches across all tournaments, and presently lead the La Liga table.
Even more remarkable than Barcelona's winning streak have been their displays at their home ground. Since their Camp Nou return on Nov. 22, the reigning Spanish champions have triumphed in all seven matches at their legendary venue.
Barcelona's Home Winning Streak
Barcelona's Home Victory Run
The squad's prolific scoring records are unsurprising considering the quality spearheading their attack, but their defensive displays at home are remarkable, particularly since the club has faced defensive challenges throughout the season. The Spanish powerhouse has allowed just four goals across their seven home fixtures.
Flick's team is genuinely transforming Camp Nou back into an impenetrable stronghold, one that arch-rivals Real Madrid must visit with potentially championship-deciding points at stake during May's Clásico.