New Maksimir stadium construction presented

Maksimir stadium (Photo credit: Marko Vrdoljak/Zagreb Tourist Board)

Zagreb’s Maksimir Stadium is finally getting a long-overdue upgrade after decades of delays.

On Friday, 21 February 2025, a landmark agreement was unveiled at the stadium between the City of Zagreb and the Croatian Government.

The deal? Both sides will split the funding for a brand-new Maksimir Stadium 50:50, marking a major step forward for the city and its football fans.

Mayor Tomislav Tomašević called it a “historic moment.”

“This has been a problem for over 40 years,” he said. “As a fan, a citizen, and the mayor, this project means a lot to me. I’m proud we’re helping solve it after all this time.” He also pointed out that exactly a year ago, a 27-year property dispute over the stadium’s land was settled, paving the way for today’s announcement.

The new Maksimir will boast a 35,000-seat capacity and meet UEFA’s highest standards.

With an estimated cost of €175 million, the land will stay in the city’s hands, but ownership of the stadium itself will be shared equally between the city and the state. A private operator—chosen through a public tender—will handle maintenance costs, and local club Dinamo has already expressed interest in taking on that role.

(Photo:. Grad Zagreb)

The mayor also praised recent changes at Dinamo, noting that greater transparency and democracy at the club were key to reaching this point.

“In a few years, Zagreb will have two new stadiums to be proud of,” he added. Beyond football, the venues will host other sports events and concerts, boosting the city’s appeal.

Deputy Mayor Luka Korlaet explained the next steps: “By the end of the year, we’ll launch a two-phase architectural competition with the government. First, we’ll plan the layout of the entire area, then focus on the stadium’s detailed design.”

The event saw big names in attendance, including Dinamo Zagreb president Velimir Zajec, Croatian Football Federation president Marijan Kustić, Deputy Prime Minister Branko Bačić, and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, all voicing support for the project.

(Photo:. Grad Zagreb)

Meanwhile, another stadium upgrade is on the horizon. In just a month, reconstruction will begin at Kranjčevićeva Street Stadium. By 2026, it’ll be a modern, UEFA top-tier venue ready for Dinamo, other local clubs, and the national team.

This will keep football alive in Zagreb while the current Maksimir is demolished and rebuilt, with the new one expected to open by 2029.