LaLiga club Celta Vigo has received final approval from Vigo City Council for a long-term concession agreement allowing it to continue using Estadio Abanca Balaídos for the next 50 years, with an option to extend the term to 75 years.
Under the agreement, Celta will continue playing at the city-owned, 24,870-capacity stadium in exchange for an annual payment of €802,800 to Vigo City Council.
The agreement, initially reached in April, received final approval after the economic and administrative terms were completed without any objections.
Celta gains key commercial rights
The concession goes beyond simply allowing Celta to host football matches at Balaídos.
The club will be able to use the stadium and its surrounding facilities for football fixtures as well as other events. Celta will also have the right to commercialize audiovisual rights linked to sporting events, establish a commercial name for the stadium and organize cultural, leisure and entertainment activities.
The annual concession fee can be adjusted in certain circumstances, including investments made in stadium improvements, cultural and leisure activities, and potential revenue losses caused by relocating season-ticket holders during renovation works.
Vigo City Council will retain rights to use certain areas around the stadium and maintain advertising presence within the venue. It will also be able to carry out structural reforms and expansions in coordination with the club.
Vigo Mayor Abel Caballero described the agreement as an important development for the city, sport and Celta Vigo, highlighting the long-term stability provided by the concession.
Hospitality and food and beverage investment
Celta is also looking to increase Balaídos’ commercial potential and improve the matchday experience through new hospitality and food and beverage initiatives.
Last month, the club partnered with Oak View Group (OVG) to develop the stadium’s hospitality and catering operations.
The agreement marks OVG Hospitality’s entry into the Spanish market, with Celta becoming its first client in the country. OVG will develop a new food and beverage concept for Balaídos aimed at improving the experience for fans, corporate clients and visitors.
The project will be implemented alongside the stadium’s wider modernization programme.
With the 50-year concession, potential extension to 75 years and expanded commercial rights, Celta is positioning Balaídos as more than a football venue. The club is building a longer-term stadium business model around matchday revenues, hospitality, food and beverage, events and commercial rights.