Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem Proposed for Major Upgrade to Become Israel's New National Stadium
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
A proposal by the GAB architecture firm suggests a major upgrade to Jerusalem's Teddy Stadium, aiming to increase its capacity to 50,000 seats and add a roof, potentially making it Israel's new national stadium. The project, which could cost hundreds of millions, would allow the stadium to host major international matches and generate revenue from other events. The stadium was recently upgraded to Category 4, and the expansion is partly fueled by high demand from Beitar Jerusalem fans. The municipality must still approve the budgets for the ambitious project.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- A proposal aims to upgrade Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem to 50,000 seats, potentially becoming Israel's new national stadium.
- The GAB architecture firm's plan includes adding a roof over all stands to meet FIFA and UEFA requirements.
- The project is a significant economic undertaking, estimated to cost hundreds of millions of shekels.
- The stadium was recently upgraded to Category 4, enabling it to host advanced European football matches.
- The expansion is partly driven by high demand from Beitar Jerusalem fans, who have sold out 13 home games this season.
- The proposal awaits approval and budget allocation from the Jerusalem municipality.
A proposal has been put forth to transform Jerusalem's Teddy Stadium into Israel's new national stadium, significantly increasing its capacity and adding a roof over all stands. The plan, presented by the GAB architecture firm, aims to expand the stadium from its current 31,733 seats to 50,000, meeting FIFA and UEFA requirements for hosting top-tier international matches. Teddy Stadium, named after former mayor Teddy Kollek, has been the home ground for Beitar Jerusalem and Hapoel Jerusalem since its opening in 1991 and regularly hosts the Israeli national team and cup finals. Known for its enclosed structure and unique acoustics, it earned the nickname "The Volcano" and is considered one of Israel's most vibrant stadiums.
The proposed project is a massive economic undertaking, potentially costing hundreds of millions of shekels. However, the expanded stadium could generate substantial revenue through hosting concerts and other events. Currently, the proposal is on the table, awaiting approval and budget allocation from the municipality. Challenges such as access routes and parking will need to be addressed if the project moves forward, though the recent launch of a light rail line near the stadium offers a potential solution for access.
Teddy Stadium underwent renovations in August 2025, which included a new players' level and event complex, elevating it to Category 4, the highest designation allowing it to host advanced European football matches. The proposed expansion is also driven by a surge in demand from Beitar Jerusalem fans, who have frequently filled the stadium, with 13 home games this season already sold out. Beitar Jerusalem, owned by Barak Abramov, has seen significant financial success, with the club earning over 30 million shekels from 20,000 season ticket holders this season, projecting up to 40 million shekels including individual ticket sales, and operating with a record budget of 80 million shekels, placing them third in the league.
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