The new Georgi Asparuhov Stadium project envisions the construction of an entirely new football complex on the site of the existing venue.
The architectural concept brings together contemporary sports infrastructure, a multifunctional public program, integrated digital technologies, and a landscaped public realm. The design is being developed in accordance with international requirements for hosting football matches at the highest level.
The planned capacity of the new stadium is 27,826 seats under Bulgarian Football Union requirements and 25,026 seats under UEFA requirements. The project is being developed in accordance with UEFA Category 4 criteria, while also addressing the additional requirements for hosting matches in the league phase of the UEFA Champions League.
The spatial and functional organization of the complex is based on clearly separated circulation for spectators, teams, media, officials, VIP guests, and operational staff. The design provides efficient movement throughout the venue, a high level of safety, and functional independence between the different zones.
One of the defining elements of the stadium's architectural identity is its digital facade, conceived as a dynamic media system integrated into the building envelope. The concept allows the visual character of the stadium to change according to its operating mode and the nature of each event.
The design includes an approximately 390-meter panoramic LED ribbon, two large scoreboards measuring 24 by 9 meters, facade-mounted LED screens with a total area of approximately 1,520 sq. m, around 2.5 kilometers of facade lighting, and approximately 100 meters of media facade.
The digital components are designed as an integrated system that allows visual content to be synchronized with match scenarios, club campaigns, and different types of events. The facade therefore functions not simply as the visual envelope of the building, but as an active architectural element that contributes to the identity of the stadium and the overall spectator experience.
The structural concept is being developed with the involvement of international engineering consultant SBP, Schlaich Bergermann Partner. The German company has experience working on major sports venues, including Santiago Bernabéu, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, and Olympic Stadium in Munich. For the new Georgi Asparuhov Stadium, SBP provides consulting expertise focused on optimizing the structural solution and coordinating it with the architectural concept.
Within the design, Stand A forms the main functional hub of the complex and is organized across five above-ground and two underground levels. It accommodates the primary sports, administrative, media, and VIP functions.
The program also includes a fan shop, museum and exhibition area, restaurant, media center, and a multifunctional hall of approximately 1,275 sq. m. The spatial organization allows selected functions to operate independently from the matchday program, supporting active use of the complex throughout the year.
Multifunctionality is one of the core principles of the architectural concept. The new stadium is conceived not only as a venue for football matches, but as a year-round sports and public destination.
The fan shop, museum, restaurant, and selected public spaces are organized to operate independently. The multifunctional hall and VIP areas are also designed to accommodate conferences, corporate events, fan gatherings, and other activities. The project also provides the potential to host major concerts.
The surrounding public realm is developed as an integral part of the overall architectural and urban concept. Pedestrian routes, landscaped areas, and spaces for recreation strengthen the relationship between the stadium and its immediate urban context.
The outdoor spaces are conceived as a natural extension of the complex, with access beyond matchdays. This gives the area around the stadium a more active public character and creates opportunities for everyday use by supporters, visitors, and local residents.
The architectural identity of the new Georgi Asparuhov Stadium emerges from the relationship between its functional organization, structural logic, digital facade, and public spaces. The project aims to create a contemporary sports venue that meets the requirements of top-level professional football while preserving and further developing the identity of PFC Levski Sofia and the club's relationship with its community.
The ambition is for the new Georgi Asparuhov Stadium to rank among the most advanced sports venues in Southeastern Europe, combining international football standards, year-round public use, and a clearly recognizable architectural identity.
Construction is currently planned to begin in June 2027.
The new Georgi Asparuhov Stadium project was first presented by PFC Levski and IPA - Architecture and more in April 2026. At the second presentation in September 2026, the teams presented the progress made in the development of the project and the updated design solutions, including the increased capacity, further development of the digital facade concept, the functional organization of the complex, and the involvement of SBP as international engineering consultant.
