GdS: Cost, location, timing and competition - questions on RedBird's arena plan answered

"RedBird Capital will have to decide in the coming weeks whether to submit an initial, non-binding offer to the NBA for the acquisition of a franchise in 'NBA Europe', the basketball league expected to be launched in Europe in a year and a half. The decision will be made by the end of March."

"If Gerry Cardinale embarks on this new adventure - and his interest is very high - he will have to plan for the construction of an arena up to NBA standards. The Assago Forum, glorious but ageing, will not do."

"The arena for NBA Europe would have to have at least 15,000 seats (as per NBA requirements) and it's possible this could increase to 17,000-18,000. Furthermore, very high standards would be required in terms of technology, spectator services and media facilities."

"How much would it cost to build an arena in San Donato, on that swath of land bordering the city and the highway? A reasonable estimate is €400m, a decidedly significant figure but much lower than that projected for the stadium."

AC Milan's ownership RedBird Capital is evaluating whether to submit an offer for an NBA Europe franchise, with a decision expected by end of March. If pursued, this would necessitate constructing a new arena meeting NBA standards with at least 15,000 seats, potentially expanding to 17,000-18,000. The Assago Forum is too outdated, and Santa Giulia lacks basketball approval. RedBird owns land in San Donato with obtained permits, where an arena could be built for approximately €400 million—significantly less than the new stadium but still a substantial investment. The arena would require high-tech facilities and media infrastructure, serving multiple purposes beyond basketball.

Read at SempreMilan