The stands are often quiet for Benfica’s indoor sports teams. This is a head-scratcher for João Noronha Lopes. He points out that Benfica has over 400,000 members. Yet, on average, fewer than 500 show up for pavilion games. “How can this be?” his campaign asks. He wants to see those venues bursting with energy again.
Noronha Lopes has a clear plan to change this. He proposes a reward system for the most dedicated fans. Those who regularly attend pavilion matches would get closer access to the players. The biggest perk? The chance to travel with the teams for international away games. Imagine flying with your favorite handball or basketball squad.
He aims to turn Benfica’s pavilions into a real “Inferno da Luz,” a fiery home advantage. To make this happen, his team will launch several new programs. These benefits tie into a new ticketing website.
Here’s what Noronha Lopes has in mind for fans:
- A new “Red Pass Modalities” ticket plan for 2026/2027, updating the current one.
- Better rules for how members get game tickets.
- A special “Sócio-Atleta” section, just for young athletes and their parents. They can cheer on the teams together.
- Prizes for loyal attendees, like signed jerseys and chances to meet players, either online or in person.
- Exclusive open training sessions for members who hold a modalities quota and come to games often.
- A “Player for a Day” event for the most frequent supporters.
- Trips with the team to an away game, both within the country and in Europe.
Beyond these fan perks, Noronha Lopes also wants to make game day better. He promises free parking for those with a game ticket. He also plans to add “courtside seating” in the first row, just like you see in the NBA. This will bring fans closer to the action than ever before.
His vision doesn’t stop with the stands. Noronha Lopes is serious about growing new talent for Benfica’s main teams. Every sport will get its own clear path for young players. The goal is to bring new faces into the senior squads each year. He wants to strengthen ties with regional fan clubs, called Casas do Benfica. This will help find new talent in schools and communities. His plan includes programs for players to balance their sport careers with education. This ensures athletes grow as people and become lifelong Benfica fans. Young players will represent Benfica with pride, skill, and a strong sense of purpose, according to a campaign statement sent to news desks.
Noronha Lopes also believes the Casas do Benfica should play a bigger role. He wants them to energize and support the indoor sports teams. This applies to games at the Luz pavilions and away matches. He pictures every pavilion in the country becoming an “Inferno da Luz” extension. This includes games played in areas with strong regional fan club presence. The campaign will set up travel for away games and matches at the Luz pavilion. They also plan events at the Casas, like lunches, dinners, and meet-and-greets with former players. Plus, they will try to attract local businesses to sponsor the various sports teams.