Real Madrid is reportedly facing significant financial losses following a ban on hosting concerts at its recently renovated Santiago Bernabeu stadium.
The famous ground underwent an extensive £1.5 billion renovation last year, with the aim of transforming it into a top-tier venue capable of hosting both world-class football matches and major entertainment events.
Major artists, including Taylor Swift, were among those who performed at the Bernabeu after its reopening approximately 12 months ago.
However, the ambitious project, envisioned by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez to bring major music acts to the stadium, has reportedly faced setbacks.
Local residents have filed a legal complaint regarding the noise levels generated by these events, leading to the cancellation of planned gigs.
The court case is still ongoing, and Real Madrid`s city rivals, Atletico Madrid, are reportedly capitalizing on the situation.
Several concerts that were initially scheduled for the Bernabeu have now been relocated to Atletico`s Metropolitano Stadium, situated about ten miles away.
Artists such as Ed Sheeran, Imagine Dragons, and AC/DC are among those set to perform at Atletico`s home ground this summer.
Neighbors living near the Bernabeu reported that noise levels during shows last year exceeded 90 decibels.
Local resident Enrique Martínez de Azagra told the BBC that the sound from concerts is distinctly different from the atmosphere experienced during football matches.
According to Martínez de Azagra, enduring such noise levels is unbearable and harmful, stating: “It is impossible to suffer this kind of noise and it affects our health, it affects migraines, insomnia and heart attacks and it is a criminal offence in our laws. Football is a sport that lasts two hours, more or less. The noise is normal. Only when there is a goal, the passion surges.”
Real Madrid is reportedly working on developing a strategy to “soundproof” their stadium to address the issue.
Nevertheless, critics like Enrique Martínez de Azagra remain skeptical, claiming that effective soundproofing would be “impossible” for the venue.
Despite this obstacle with concerts, Real Madrid is still generating significant revenue from their modernized stadium.
Reports indicate the club is earning approximately £1 million per day through activities like stadium tours, merchandise sales, and matchday ticket revenue.
