The timeline for the new “G. Karaiskakis”

Another important step toward the start of construction at the Olympiacos stadium was taken on Wednesday (November 11). The Plenary Session of the Hellenic Parliament approved the bill submitted by the Ministry of Environment and Energy. The relevant provision was passed, thereby establishing the legal framework for increasing the capacity of the “G. Karaiskakis” Stadium from 33,500 to 52,000 seats.

But when will construction begin, and when will the new stadium be ready for use? Recently, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated that the goal of the government and the relevant agencies is to complete the bureaucratic procedures and have the first construction projects begin in May 2027.

Specifically, he emphasized:

“Another step was taken this week toward the renovation of ‘Georgios Karaiskakis,’ the historic home stadium of Olympiacos. This is a private investment of 250 million euros, aimed at creating a new 53,000-seat stadium worthy of the team’s history. The necessary legislative measures are being put in place so that construction can begin in May 2027.”

Vangelis Marinakis, owner of Olympiacos FC, had also mentioned May 2027 during a press conference at the Piraeus Municipal Theater. As he noted:

“The key is not to get stuck at the stage of models and nice videos. We began the studies and preparations with the company that will take on the project more than a year ago. In September, we sent a letter to the government requesting a regulation. It’s nothing out of the ordinary; it’s a regulation regarding the height—53–54 meters. There’s the 85-meter Piraeus Tower, and we’ve seen towers like the one at Elliniko obtain permits through expedited procedures. There’s no need to debate whether the stadium can be raised.

We were waiting; we had prepared to start at the end of the season and be ready in two years. Now, with this delay, the earliest the plans can begin is next May.”

As for when it will be completed? According to estimates, it will take two years to finish the work. In other words, if everything goes well and construction begins in May 2027, then the “G. Karaiskakis” Stadium will be ready in 2029. This means the team will be able to play there starting with the 2029–2030 season.

*photo source: olympiacos.org