Fears Allianz Stadium report could see venue closed for summer
The playing surface of the $828m Allianz Stadium has come under heavy fire in recent months and could be set to face the unthinkable.
Allianz Stadium could be sensationally closed and unavailable for sport this coming summer.
The $828 million venue only reopened in 2022, but is now awaiting results on a report into the massive drainage issues the facility has faced over the past three years.
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The investigation comes after disastrous flooded playing surfaces this season and last when the Sydney Roosters, Waratahs and NSW Blues women’s side hosted games.
A decision is expected to be made by the end of the month after Allianz operators Service NSW responded to matter.
The worst possible scenario is if the issue is due to the stadium’s underground drainage system, as feared, it could take months to rectify.
The move will mean Sydney FC may have to find a temporary new home for the upcoming 2025/26 A-League season, most likely Leichhardt Oval according to AAP, causing significant commercial concerns.
The A-League and the Sky Blues have already looked to adjust the schedule to work around major concerts and events, creating another hurdle for the side.
“The comprehensive review into the playing surface and drainage system at Allianz Stadium is expected to be finalised later this month,” a Venues NSW spokesperson said.
“As we are awaiting the results of the investigation, no decision has been made on what remediation works are required.”
The stadium’s neighbouring venue the Sydney Cricket Ground last week also come under massive scrutiny during a Round 16 clash between the Sydney Swans and Western Bulldogs, which also saw drainage issues causing a slippery surfaces for players.
New turf has been re-laid the past two summers but conditions have only worsened.
The worst of it came in May after a rain-soaked women’s State of Origin match saw players surrounded by pools of water in near unplayable conditions.
The review comes after independent MP Mark Latham raised his concerns in parliament last month.
The MP questioned why the issued had persisted for so long and had concerns for player safety and insurance.
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