Date Published: 28/07/2025

Murcia's Enrique Roca stadium makes upgrades ready for 2030 World Cup

Real Murcia is modernising its home ground with new technology, VIP areas and enhanced fan facilities ahead of a potential 2030 World Cup role

The Enrique Roca Stadium in Murcia city is in the midst of a major transformation as Real Murcia pushes forward with an ambitious modernisation project designed to improve the matchday experience and boost the club’s commercial appeal.

The upgrade, which is being backed by Murcia City Council, is also intended to position the stadium as a viable candidate for international events, including the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

With a target completion date ahead of the 2025-26 season, the works focus on both functional and aesthetic improvements. One of the most visible changes will be the installation of new, high-resolution digital video scoreboards, replacing the old system. These will enhance live broadcasts within the stadium and open new opportunities for advertising and sponsor visibility.

LED screens are also being added throughout the concourse areas to contribute to a more immersive and modern environment for fans during matches and other events.

In addition to technology upgrades, Real Murcia is expanding the official club shop, offering more space and a wider range of merchandise. The reopening is expected in August to coincide with the presentation of the new season, forming part of a broader effort to improve the stadium’s retail performance and strengthen the club’s brand.

A new feature set to launch soon is a premium ‘experience’ area in the side stand. Designed for around 200 people, this space will offer exclusive access, tailored hospitality and catering services, aligning the venue with the standards of top-flight stadiums and creating an additional revenue stream.

Plans are also in place to repurpose the stadium’s fourth floor into a dedicated hospitality area, which would include VIP boxes, service bars and leisure facilities. This proposal is still in the development phase and has not yet been formally submitted to municipal authorities.

The funding for these projects is being drawn from a mix of club resources, sponsor partnerships and revenue from specially designated fixtures. Club representatives have stressed that the goal is to create infrastructure that reflects Real Murcia’s ambitions to return to the upper tiers of professional football.

At the same time, there are plans by a private promoter to be able to convert the stadium into an auditorium and concert venue for gigs and other events.

The Enrique Roca Stadium is part of the preliminary planning for Murcia’s potential role as a host city in the 2030 World Cup. If selected, the venue would see further expansion, including an increase in capacity to 45,000, the renovation of its roofing, advanced lighting systems and improvements to nearby urban areas.

However, these developments remain subject to decisions at national and international level.

Málaga CF recently pulled its bid to be a venue for any World Cup matches, citing the high price tag for the club to be able to make the required improvements to the ground and the limited returns that will be enjoyed by fans.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Murcia