San Siro stadium celebrates 100 years of history in Milan

The San Siro stadium in Milan celebrates its centenary, marking 100 years since its inauguration on September 19, 1926. Originally built with the vision of Piero Pirelli, the venue hosted its first match—a derby between Inter and Milan that ended 6-3—and has since become a global icon of football, hosting World Cups, European finals, and major international concerts.

As the stadium reaches this milestone, its future remains a subject of intense debate. Current plans involve the demolition of much of the historic Giuseppe Meazza structure to make way for a new, modern stadium for Inter and Milan, potentially located in the Tesio area. This redevelopment project, estimated to cost approximately 2.149 billion euros, aims to create a multifunctional urban district including offices, commercial spaces, and green areas.

The transition is marked by both economic significance and cultural tension. While the stadium generates substantial matchday revenue for both clubs—estimated at 150–170 million euros annually—the prospect of demolition has sparked debate among fans and former players. Some, like former player Aldo Serena, have advocated for a renovation model similar to the Santiago Bernabéu rather than total replacement.