FC Barcelona has found a temporary new home for the 2023/24 season, and it's a stadium that holds a rich history. While construction work is underway at the Spotify Camp Nou for an impressive refurbishment project, Barça will be playing their home fixtures at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Montjuïc. This stadium, situated on a hill with beautiful gardens overlooking the city, has a capacity for approximately 50,000 football fans. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating details of the Estadi Olímpic and uncover some lesser-known facts about this iconic venue.
The Estadi Olímpic has hosted LaLiga football before:
Although the Estadi Olímpic will host 19 LaLiga matches in the 2023/24 season, it is not the first time that Spanish football's top competition has graced this venue. From 1997 to 2009, RCD Espanyol, Barcelona's local rivals, called this stadium their home. Additionally, the Estadi Olímpic has been the venue for nine Copa del Rey finals, with the most recent one taking place in 2004.
It is the venue where Messi made his Barcelona debut:
The Estadi Olímpic holds a special place in Barcelona's history as it witnessed one of the most significant moments in the club's legacy. It was here that Lionel Messi made his official debut for the first team on October 16th, 2004. Coming off the bench as a late substitute for Deco in a Barcelona Derby, Messi's appearance marked the beginning of his illustrious career, which has seen him make 778 appearances for the club.
Barça have already played a European game at the Estadi Olímpic:
While Barcelona's Champions League fixtures are being played in Montjuïc this year, the club has already experienced a home European fixture at the Estadi Olímpic. In the 1996-97 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, Barcelona played their first-round match against AEK Larnaca at this ground due to the Camp Nou pitch being re-laid. The night proved successful for Barcelona, with Ronaldo Nazario scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory. Barcelona went on to win that edition of the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup.
NFL greats Steve Young and John Elway have played in Montjuïc:
The Estadi Olímpic has not only witnessed football matches but has also hosted exhibition matches as part of the American Bowl series in the 1990s. In 1993, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 21-14, and in 1994, the Los Angeles Raiders overcame the Denver Broncos 25-22. Legendary NFL players such as Steve Young and John Elway graced the turf of the Estadi Olímpic during these games. Over the years, the venue has also hosted various other sports, including boxing, rugby, and all the athletics events of the 1992 Olympic Games.
Some of the world's biggest music artists have performed at this ground:
Apart from sporting events, the Estadi Olímpic has also been a stage for major concerts. In the summer of 2023, renowned artists like Coldplay, Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé, Harry Styles, and The Weeknd performed at this iconic venue. In the past, the likes of Pink Floyd, Madonna, U2, The Rolling Stones, Shakira, Muse, and Guns N' Roses have also graced the stage at the Estadi Olímpic.
As Barcelona embarks on their temporary home at the Estadi Olímpic, fans can look forward to experiencing the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of this iconic stadium. From hosting LaLiga matches and European fixtures to witnessing the debut of Lionel Messi and welcoming NFL legends, the Estadi Olímpic has left an indelible mark on the world of sports. Moreover, its role as a venue for major concerts further adds to its allure. So, as Barça takes the field at the Estadi Olímpic, let us celebrate the legacy and excitement that this historic stadium brings to the beautiful game.