Italian club Como has received approval from UEFA to host Champions League matches at their home stadium, Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium, after completing three months of significant renovations. The upgrades were necessary to meet UEFA's standards for the competition.
Como secured their first-ever Champions League berth last season by finishing fourth in Serie A. However, their stadium infrastructure initially did not meet the required benchmarks, leading to discussions about potentially using Sassuolo's stadium for European games.
Manchester United is scheduled to visit Como during the league phase of the Champions League. Other notable teams expected to travel to Como include European champions Paris Saint-Germain, RB Leipzig, and AEK Athens.
The renovation work began immediately after Como's final home game of the 2025-26 season. Key improvements included the demolition and reconstruction of a stand to meet UEFA standards, extending the pitch by two-and-a-half meters, and relocating the players' tunnel and substitutes' benches. The club also significantly upgraded dressing rooms and media facilities, including a new mixed zone, TV studio, and press room. Additionally, Como partnered with a local college to add 150 parking spaces.
Local authorities and the fire department recently inspected the completed works and ratified them from a safety perspective, a crucial step in obtaining hosting rights. The club president, Mirwan Suwarso, expressed disbelief and excitement about the club's rapid ascent, noting Como's journey from Serie D just seven years prior to playing in the Champions League.
The club aims to enjoy the experience and perform to the best of their ability, acknowledging the significance of their achievement and the unpredictable nature of football. The confirmation from UEFA allows Como to host European fixtures on the shores of Lake Como as planned.