Antwerp FC will begin demolition of the current stand and construction of the new temporary Stand 2 at the Bosuil Stadium in mid-May, announced CEO Sven Jaecques during a press conference on Thursday.
The new stand, which will be built by the Flemish club, is expected to cost approximately €12.5 million and will increase the stadium's capacity from 16,000 to 21,000 seats. Once completed, the club plans to consult with authorities on potentially raising the maximum capacity to 24,500 spectators.
The first step is to demolish the old stand, which has been vacant for years, with completion targeted for November. "No objections were raised against the permit," added Sven Jaecques, highlighting a harmonious relationship between the club and local community.
When asked about external funding for the construction, Jaecques declined to elaborate. He emphasised that it is the club handling the construction and financing, while acknowledging that clubs should consider external capital.
Further details regarding ticket and season pass pricing, which are expected to rise slightly, will be announced in mid-May.
The start of the project ends years of uncertainty surrounding Stand 2. The stand is located on land owned by entrepreneur Tania Mintjens, with Antwerp holding a surface rights agreement. This allows the club to build on the land, but in 2052 Mintjens can buy the structure at market value, a point of contention for Antwerp owner Paul Gheysens.
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The announcement follows the release of Ghelamco's annual figures, revealing a loss of €323.9 million in 2024, though reduced debt due to record property sales. Increased stadium capacity could potentially attract new investors to the club.
According to Gazet van Antwerpen, there is interest from parties in acquiring partial or full ownership of the club, with foreign investors potentially covering the stand's costs, though Antwerp dismisses this as speculation.
In mid-February, Antwerp's municipal council approved the environmental permit, albeit with conditions focusing on maintaining quality of life around the stadium.
