Italy: "We've got to think about stadiums that are open 7 days a week" (Ezio Simonelli, Lega Serie A)

"We've got to think about new stadiums that are open seven days a week, tied to the development of the communities around them. We need to create an integrated system that benefits the country as a whole. Unfortunately, however, only 8% of stadiums are privately owned. We as the Lega Serie A, need to position ourselves as a purchasing centre available to smaller clubs in particular," said Ezio Simonelli, president of Lega Serie A, in Brussels (BEL) on 11/11/2025.

Simonelli took part in a conference entitled "European sports infrastructure, a driving force for urban and social regeneration", organised by Lara Magoni (ITA), MEP for the European Conservatives and Reformists Group (right-wing/far-right).

"When we talk about sports infrastructure, we're talking about urban regeneration, sociability, education, health and the future. Because behind every pitch, every stadium, every renovated gymnasium, there is an investment in human capital, in the confidence and hope of communities," said Simonelli.

"Sports infrastructure can be an example of innovation, inclusion and integration into…