The Stadio Flaminio, a once iconic stadium in Rome, is now facing calls to be demolished after falling into a hideous state of disrepair. The stadium, which has a bigger capacity than some Premier League grounds, hosted Olympic Games, Six Nations matches, and legendary musicians such as Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, and David Bowie.
A Glorious History
The Stadio Flaminio, opened in 1959 ahead of the Olympic Games in Rome the following year, was built on the site of the demolished Stadio Nazionale PNF, which hosted the 1934 World Cup final. During its peak in the 1980s, the stadium attracted big-name performers like Pink Floyd, U2, Bowie, Springsteen, and Jackson. It also served as the temporary home for Lazio and Roma football clubs while the Stadio Olimpico was being refurbished.
Years of Neglect
After being abandoned by the Italian Rugby Federation and without a tenant, the Stadio Flaminio started to deteriorate rapidly. The interior of the stadium is now badly degraded, with rubbish strewn all over the place, and the pitch is overgrown. The stands are crumbling, and the exterior is rickety and out of use.
A New Lease on Life?
Despite its current state, there is hope for the Stadio Flaminio. Banking groups Cassa Depositi e Prestiti and Istituto del Credito Sportivo have come up with a plan to restore the stadium to working use. The plan, estimated to cost around £70 million and take five years to execute, would respect the stadium's original design by architect Pier Luigi Nervi while adding a new 25,000 capacity and a retractable roof. The goal is to host football and rugby matches once again.
Possibility of Football's Return
Lazio, a Serie A club, has shown interest in returning to their former temporary home but would require a 40,000 capacity for the move. However, there are limitations that make this possibility difficult. For now, the Stadio Flaminio remains in a sorry state, with its glory days fading into the past.
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