River Plate has revealed ambitious plans to expand its renowned Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, aiming to increase its capacity to an impressive 101,000 spectators. This significant redevelopment will position the venue as the second-largest football stadium globally, following North Korea”s Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, which can hold 114,000 fans.
The announcement comes as River Plate, one of South America”s premier football clubs, seeks to modernize its facilities. The stadium, which has been a staple of Argentine football since May 1938, has also hosted pivotal events, including the 1978 FIFA World Cup final. The club intends to complete the redevelopment ahead of the 2030 World Cup, which Argentina is set to co-host with Paraguay and Uruguay.
In a recent social media video, the club confirmed the long-anticipated expansion plans, which include adding a new roof to the stadium. To facilitate this project, River Plate has partnered with the German engineering firm Schlaich Bergermann Partner (SBP), known for its work on notable stadiums such as the Allianz Arena and Santiago Bernabeu.
“Today marks a historic day for River Plate,” stated club president Stefano Di Carlo in an Instagram post, emphasizing the significance of the project. “This redevelopment will modernize our stadium, solidifying it as the largest and most important venue in the Americas.” According to Di Carlo, the financial strategy for the project includes securing long-term international loans with favorable interest rates. The club plans to recoup its investment through increased ticket sales and hosting various high-profile events.
The expansion will add an additional 16,000 seats to the current capacity of 85,000, which already ranks among the top ten largest football stadiums worldwide. The estimated cost of the redevelopment is projected to exceed $100 million, with construction expected to commence in April 2026.
Upon completion, Monumental Stadium will not only enhance the fan experience but also elevate River Plate“s status on the international stage. The club”s venue has previously hosted four finals of the Copa America and is poised to attract even more prestigious matches and events in the future.
