Camp Nou: FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed that the club is actively preparing a monumental tribute ceremony for Lionel Messi once the redevelopment of the Spotify Camp Nou is fully completed. Speaking on the long-awaited project, Laporta reiterated the club's commitment to honouring the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner in front of a capacity crowd. Laporta stated, “We are planning for the Leo Messi tribute once the Spotify Camp Nou is completed. It will be a beautiful tribute. We hope to complete the stadium by the start of 2028.” The tribute aims to provide a proper farewell to the club’s greatest ever player, whose departure in 2021 occurred without a formal stadium send-off.

Timeline Set for 105,000-Seat Venue Completion

The proposed ceremony hinges on the final completion of Barcelona’s iconic home venue, which is undergoing extensive reconstruction. The project is designed to expand the stadium's total seating capacity to 105,000 spectators. Laporta explained that while the team plans to return to playing matches at the Spotify Camp Nou earlier in the construction timeline, the official tribute will be reserved for when full capacity is achieved. Laporta stressed that the event will take place immediately upon complete restoration, subject to Messi's willingness to participate in the ceremony.

Mending Ties Following Historic Departure

The announcement can be seen as part of the ongoing efforts by the Catalan club to offer closure following Messi’s emotional departure at the end of the 2020–21 season, when strict La Liga financial regulations prevented a contract renewal. Laporta acknowledged that while Barcelona had hoped Messi would remain longer before moving to Paris Saint-Germain and subsequently Inter Miami CF, the club remains eager to welcome him back for a historic celebration. Additionally, Laporta offered his sincere condolences to Messi and his family following the recent death of the player’s father, reaffirming that the club remains fully at Messi's disposal for the tribute.