Andrea Abodi, the Italian Minister for Sport and Youth, provided a clue about the infrastructure of Serie A stadiums when asked about plans ahead of Euro 2032.
Back in October, the Italian and Turkish FAs confirmed their joint bid for the 2032 European Championship, a move that immediately sparked discussion amongst onlookers considering the relatively poor state of stadiums in Serie A.
Only a handful of clubs like Juventus and Atalanta own their stadium, with most others like Milan, Inter and Roma all using stadiums owned by the local government. The work for a new stadium is filled with bureaucracy, often frustrating club directors and fans.
Abodi on stadiums and TV rights in Serie A
Speaking to La Repubblica via TMW, Abodi was asked if there would be reforms regarding the infrastructure and state of Italian football stadiums ahead of Euro 2032.
“I am working for Euro 2032 and beyond, given that there will only be five of our ‘European’ stadiums while the need for new or improved facilities is much more significant.
“There is certainly competition and the choice by the end of October 2026 will reward the best, most reliable projects, with a defined economic framework.
“After that, I’m preparing a draft rule, to be subjected to comparison with the various stakeholders, which updates the management of audiovisual rights, taking into account the evolution of digital technology and European legislation on geo-blocking.”
The Minister for Sport and Youth was then asked if there were any plans to change the distribution of TV rights amongst Serie A clubs.
“The issue of resource distribution and system mutuality will naturally be discussed, linking it with the priority issue of infrastructure. I’m thinking of using part of the revenues from TV rights to be able to offer infrastructure at European levels.
“A rule that allows maximize revenues for the clubs, putting in the best conditions the fans who want to live their passion and their experience at the stadium or in front of a screen, from television to smartphone.”