Nürnberg city council has unanimously approved plans to rebuild the Max-Morlock-Stadion, paving the way for 1. FC Nürnberg to expand their home ground to a 50,000-seater venue. Municipal representatives voted this week to instruct the administration to pursue the demolition and reconstruction of sections of the historic ground.
Capacity Expansion and Timeline
Upon completion, the stadium will accommodate 50,000 spectators for 2. Bundesliga fixtures and 40,000 for international matches. This represents a substantial increase from the current capacity of 36,000. The project is scheduled for completion by the start of the 2031/32 season, giving the club several years to prepare for the transition.
The unanimous decision by city authorities reflects the importance of the club to the local community. The increased capacity will position the stadium among the larger venues in German football, though the club will need to earn promotion to the top flight to fully utilise the expanded facilities against the country’s biggest clubs.
Historical Significance
The club has occupied the Max-Morlock-Stadion since 1963, with the venue holding particular significance as the site of Nürnberg’s sole Bundesliga championship triumph in 1968. Currently competing in the second tier following their relegation from the Bundesliga in 2019, the club maintains strong support, recording an average attendance of 35,180 during the 2025/26 campaign.
The stadium also hosted several fixtures for the Germany women’s national team this year, demonstrating its continued status as an important football venue in the region.
Temporary Relocation Challenge
The reconstruction presents an immediate logistical challenge, as the Bavarian side must identify a temporary home for the duration of the building works. The club has not yet announced where they will play during the reconstruction period, which will see them depart their home of nearly seven decades.
The project represents a significant vote of confidence in the club under manager Miroslav Klose, who will oversee the team’s campaigns during the transition period. With current attendances regularly approaching the 36,000 limit, the additional capacity should meet demand should the club secure promotion before the project’s completion.