The sound of drills and construction fills the air around José Alvalade Stadium. This isn’t just routine maintenance; it’s a full-blown transformation. Machines are working tirelessly, pushing forward a massive renovation project. Sporting Lisbon is in a race against the clock to get their home turf ready for the new season.
One of the biggest changes involves the old moat around the pitch. That barrier is now almost completely gone, bringing the fans much closer to the action. You can already spot the iconic ‘Lion Seats’ being installed in the two central sections. These new chairs are more than just seating; they’re a symbol of the club’s identity.
Despite the rapid progress, there’s still plenty to do. Workers need to add four new rows of seats, which will boost the stadium’s capacity by two thousand spots. Laying down a brand-new playing field is also a major task, involving a lot of detailed planning and careful work. It’s a huge puzzle being put together piece by piece.
Because of this ongoing work, the team might have to play their first home league match away from Alvalade. Their mid-August game against Arouca could happen at a different venue. Even the team’s official presentation, set for the 25th, won’t be held at their home stadium. Instead, the Estádio Nacional will host the event, a temporary shift for the two-time champions.
The club had already asked to start the championship season with an away game, giving them more time. They’ll kick off their league campaign in Rio Maior, facing Casa Pia. This busy schedule and the stadium’s facelift mean a few early season adjustments. But the goal is clear: a bigger, better home for the passionate supporters.