Barcelona, December 14 – The Barcelona City Council has given the green light to a comprehensive renovation project for the La Foixarda rugby field, located on the Montjuïc mountain. The project, with a budget of approximately one million euros, is slated for execution between June and September 2026, as confirmed by the city council’s government commission.
Long-awaited Modernization for La Foixarda
The overhaul of the La Foixarda rugby field has been a long-standing demand from the local sports community. The primary objectives of the renovation are to adapt the playing surface to regulatory dimensions and to rectify persistent deficiencies, including issues related to cable theft that have plagued the facility. The project, spearheaded by the Barcelona Sports Institute (IBE), includes several key improvements:
- Enlargement of the rugby field’s dimensions.
- Replacement of the artificial turf with new, organic-filled turf.
- Enhancement of the existing irrigation system.
The works, to be carried out by the municipal company BIMSA, will encompass an area of 9,920 square meters. This extensive renovation will also involve modifications to the lateral elements of the field and an extension of the northern lateral railing. Additionally, openings to the railings will be covered, access to changing rooms will be delimited, and the grid on the southwest side will be protected.
Technical Improvements and Enhanced Drainage
Further technical enhancements include the creation of two new channels to boost drainage capacity, the replacement of current irrigation spouts with emerging sprinklers, an upgrade of the pumping and chlorination system, and the installation of new goalposts. As a direct result of the field’s expansion, the new turf will cover an additional 267 square meters, increasing the total playing area from 9,653 to 9,920 square meters.
The installation of new artificial turf is expected to significantly improve the technical conditions for rugby practice, ensuring a safer and more professional environment for athletes. The city council emphasized that this project is part of a broader shock plan aimed at improving the city’s sports facilities, an initiative agreed upon with the ERC municipal group, involving a total investment of approximately 10 million euros.
A Historic Facility Brought Up to Date
David Escudé, the Councillor for Sports, commented on the project’s significance, stating, “With this project, a historic Montjuïc facility is being brought up to date.” He added that the IBE has been diligently working to upgrade the city’s sports equipment to ensure healthy and optimal conditions for all sports clubs and entities in Barcelona.
The renovation of La Foixarda is a testament to the city’s commitment to supporting its sports infrastructure and providing high-quality facilities for its residents. This investment is expected to benefit numerous rugby clubs and players, offering them a modern and well-maintained venue for training and competitions.
Source: elperiodico.com
