Big changes are on the horizon for football fans in Zagreb. The City of Zagreb has announced a €44 million investment to modernize Kranjčevićeva Stadium, which will serve as Dinamo Zagreb’s temporary home starting in 2026. This move paves the way for the demolition and reconstruction of the iconic Maksimir Stadium, with a state-of-the-art replacement expected by 2028.
A UEFA-Standard Stadium in the Heart of Zagreb
Mayor Tomislav Tomašević revealed that construction on Kranjčevićeva Stadium will kick off in early 2025, with completion targeted for September 2026. The renovated stadium will expand its seating capacity from 5,350 to 11,163, meeting UEFA Category 4 requirements. This upgrade ensures the stadium will be capable of hosting top-tier matches, including Champions League games up to the semi-final stage.
“We’re thrilled to bring this project to life after overcoming numerous challenges,” said Mayor Tomašević. “With the building permit secured and procurement underway, we’re ready to transform Kranjčevićeva into a modern football venue.”
Features of the New Kranjčevićeva Stadium
The redesigned stadium will offer cutting-edge facilities to meet the needs of players, staff, and fans. Key upgrades include:
- Fully covered seating for all spectators
- A hybrid, heated playing surface
- Modern LED floodlighting to replace outdated systems
- Advanced infrastructure for teams, technical staff, and media
The total investment of €44 million includes €35 million for construction and additional costs for VAT, with the full budget covered by the City of Zagreb.
What This Means for Dinamo Zagreb and Croatian Football
Once completed, Kranjčevićeva Stadium will become the temporary home for Dinamo Zagreb and could also host Croatian national team matches. This ensures both teams have a top-quality venue while Maksimir Stadium undergoes its much-needed reconstruction.
The demolition of Maksimir Stadium will mark the beginning of a new chapter for Croatian football, with the new Dinamo stadium expected to open in 2028. The project promises to elevate Zagreb’s football infrastructure, securing its position as a hub for both domestic and international competitions.
