STRABAG to Renovate and Expand Kranjčevićeva Stadium in Zagreb
Zagreb, the vibrant capital city of Croatia, is on the cusp of a significant enhancement to its sporting infrastructure. STRABAG d.o.o., the Croatian arm of the esteemed European construction conglomerate STRABAG SE, has officially formalized an agreement for the comprehensive renovation and expansion of the venerable Kranjčevićeva Stadium. This landmark contract, awarded to STRABAG as the most competitive bidder by the City of Zagreb, signifies the commencement of one of the capital’s most ambitious sports infrastructure endeavors. The project, valued at 38 million euros, will culminate in a modern, state-of-the-art football stadium boasting a substantially increased seating capacity, rising from the current 5,350 to an impressive 11,163, with the added benefit of full coverage for all spectators. Construction activities have recently commenced, with an anticipated duration of approximately 18 months, targeting completion by the close of 2026.
The revitalized stadium will be meticulously designed and constructed to adhere fully to the stringent UEFA Category 4 standards. This prestigious certification will empower the venue to host top-tier European football competitions, including matches from the coveted Champions League, the prominent Europa League, and the burgeoning Conference League. The scope of the contract encompasses a comprehensive reconstruction of the existing stadium infrastructure, ensuring strict adherence to the highest benchmarks of construction quality and safety protocols. The enhanced sports facility will feature a cutting-edge heated hybrid pitch, ensuring optimal playing conditions throughout the year. Furthermore, it will incorporate modern press facilities equipped to meet the demands of contemporary sports journalism, alongside all the essential amenities expected of a modern, world-class stadium.
Embracing sustainability and inclusivity, the new Kranjčevićeva Stadium will integrate energy-efficient solutions, minimizing its environmental footprint. Full accessibility for individuals with disabilities will be a key design consideration, ensuring that all patrons can enjoy the facilities comfortably and without hindrance. Moreover, the stadium will be equipped with state-of-the-art multimedia systems, enhancing the fan experience through advanced audio-visual capabilities, and sophisticated security systems, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all attendees.
The reimagined Kranjčevićeva Stadium is poised to become a premier sporting hub, not only serving as a home ground for the esteemed GNK Dinamo Zagreb, the Croatian National Team for select matches, and other prominent clubs but also delivering enduring benefits to the broader sports and social fabric of the City of Zagreb. This significant investment in sporting infrastructure underscores the city’s commitment to fostering athletic excellence and providing high-quality facilities for its citizens and the wider sporting community.
This ambitious project forms part of a larger, strategic investment initiative aimed at bolstering Zagreb’s overall sports infrastructure. Notably, this initiative also includes the construction of a modern swimming pool complex in the Špansko district, a project also entrusted to the expertise of STRABAG. This parallel development further highlights the city’s dedication to enhancing recreational and sporting opportunities for its residents across various disciplines.
The selection of STRABAG d.o.o. for this significant undertaking underscores the company’s proven track record and expertise in delivering complex and high-quality construction projects, particularly within the realm of sports infrastructure. As a subsidiary of the well-established European construction group STRABAG SE, STRABAG d.o.o. brings a wealth of experience, technical proficiency, and a commitment to innovation to this pivotal project. Their successful bid reflects their ability to meet the stringent requirements and ambitious vision set forth by the City of Zagreb for the renovation and expansion of the Kranjčevićeva Stadium.
The commencement of construction marks an exciting phase for Zagreb’s sporting community and signifies tangible progress towards the realization of this long-anticipated project. The 18-month construction timeline reflects the comprehensive nature of the work involved, encompassing not only the expansion of seating capacity and the installation of the new pitch but also the complete overhaul of existing facilities to meet modern standards and UEFA Category 4 requirements. The scheduled completion by the end of 2026 will usher in a new era for football in Zagreb, providing a modern and well-equipped venue capable of hosting top-tier international and domestic competitions.
The positive impact of the upgraded Kranjčevićeva Stadium will extend beyond the realm of professional football. The enhanced facilities and increased capacity will provide opportunities for a wider range of sporting and community events, contributing to the social and cultural vibrancy of the city. The inclusion of modern amenities, energy-efficient solutions, and full accessibility will ensure that the stadium serves as a welcoming and inclusive venue for all members of the community.
In conclusion, the official signing of the contract between the City of Zagreb and STRABAG d.o.o. for the renovation and expansion of the Kranjčevićeva Stadium represents a significant step forward in the development of Zagreb’s sports infrastructure. This ambitious 38 million euro project will deliver a modern, UEFA Category 4 compliant football stadium with a significantly increased capacity and state-of-the-art amenities. The anticipated completion by the end of 2026 will provide a premier sporting venue for GNK Dinamo Zagreb, the Croatian National Team, and other clubs, while also bringing long-term social and economic benefits to the City of Zagreb. This investment, alongside other infrastructure projects like the Špansko swimming pool, underscores Zagreb’s commitment to fostering a thriving sporting environment for its citizens.
