Barcelona stop Spotify Camp Nou construction in mourning for worker killed on site

Barcelona have suspended redevelopment work at Spotify Camp Nou after a construction worker died in an accident on the project, the club announced on Saturday.

Activity at the stadium complex, which has been undergoing major renovation for more than three years, was brought to a standstill as the club and more than 1,000 workers on site entered a period of mourning for the victim.

The incident occurred on Friday at around midday at the Les Corts construction site, where work is being carried out as part of the wider redevelopment of Barcelona’s historic home.

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, the worker, a 54-year-old man, suffered a fatal blow while performing his duties in the stadium works area. No further personal details were made public in the immediate aftermath of the accident.

It is the first fatal workplace incident reported since the large-scale renovation of Spotify Camp Nou began in June 2023.

Police and legal investigation

In line with established protocols, the Mossos d’Esquadra – the police force of the Catalonia region – notified the investigating court after issuing an official communication on the incident.

The court will now examine the circumstances of the accident and determine the legal steps to be taken. No information has yet been released on potential liability or whether work will be modified as a result of the investigation.

Barcelona said all construction activity at the stadium was halted on Saturday as a mark of respect for the worker who lost his life.

Laporta to offer condolences in person

Club president Joan Laporta has decided to contact the family of the deceased worker directly to offer his condolences and personal support on behalf of Barcelona.

In a statement published on the club’s official channels, Barcelona said: “ياسف نادي برشلونة بشدة لوفاة العامل الذي فقد حياته امس في حادث عمل وقع اثناء اعمال التجديد في سبوتيفاي كامب نو”.

The club added: “نود ان نعرب عن خالص تعازينا وننقل كل دعمنا وعاطفتنا لعايلة العامل واصدقايه وزملايه.. رييس النادي، خوان لابورتا، سينقل تعازيه شخصيا للعايلة ويضع نفسه تحت تصرفهم نيابة عن الموسسة باكملها”.

Barcelona did not specify how long work would remain suspended, but underlined that the decision was taken as part of the club’s mourning for the victim and in solidarity with his relatives and colleagues.

Major stadium project ongoing

The large-scale refurbishment of Spotify Camp Nou is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Barcelona’s history and has transformed the appearance and daily activity around the stadium since work began.

Current efforts in recent months have been focused on the “pressure ring”, the structural element designed to support the roof of the new-look arena once construction is complete.

Despite the pause triggered by the tragedy, the club’s long-term plan for the project remains unchanged. Barcelona still hope to complete the redevelopment and deliver the fully finished stadium by the end of 2027.

The club did not indicate whether the accident or any subsequent legal proceedings will have an impact on that timeline, but reiterated that its priority at present is to support those affected by the worker’s death and to observe the period of mourning at Spotify Camp Nou.