Order of Florentino Pérez: Why Does Real Play All Year Round Under a Closed Bernabéu?

The Santiago Bernabéu has long been a symbol of Real Madrid’s prestige, standing as one of the most iconic stadiums in the world. After undergoing a massive renovation, the legendary arena now boasts a state-of-the-art retractable roof. However, in an unexpected move, club president Florentino Pérez has decided to keep the roof closed for every game. This decision, while initially puzzling to some, is actually driven by strategic and financial motives.

The modernization of the Bernabéu has transformed it into a world-class facility, complete with futuristic infrastructure, advanced acoustics, and an entirely new fan experience. But why has Real Madrid opted to play under a permanently closed roof, rather than utilizing the retractability of this multimillion-euro addition? The answer lies in the club’s pursuit of competitive dominance, financial stability, and an enhanced matchday atmosphere.

A Fortress of Sound and Pressure

One of the primary reasons behind keeping the roof closed is to create an electrifying atmosphere inside the stadium. A closed environment amplifies sound, turning the Bernabéu into a cauldron of noise that fuels the players while intimidating the opposition. Pérez and the Real Madrid hierarchy believe that this controlled setting gives the team a psychological advantage, ensuring that opponents feel the full weight of the Madridista passion.

Several players have already remarked on the noticeable difference in intensity with the new setup. The reverberations of chants and cheers create an overwhelming wall of sound, making the Bernabéu one of the most intimidating stadiums in world football. In crucial matches, this edge could prove decisive, as Real Madrid aims to maximize every possible advantage in their quest for silverware.

A Unique Attraction in European Football

Real Madrid is the only club in Spain—and one of the few in Europe—that possesses a stadium with a fully retractable roof. Pérez sees this as more than just an architectural feature; he views it as a business opportunity. By keeping the roof closed, the club enhances the stadium’s exclusivity, making it a must-visit destination for football fans worldwide.

The controlled climate and immersive experience make every match at the Bernabéu feel like an elite spectacle. Tourists and fans alike are drawn to the opportunity to witness football in an environment where the game is presented with unmatched grandeur. This strategy has already led to an increase in ticket sales, VIP box reservations, and overall revenue from stadium visits.

Financial Stability and Increased Revenue

Florentino Pérez is renowned for his meticulous financial planning, and the closed-roof policy fits perfectly into his broader vision for the club. Maintaining a predictable stadium environment ensures that Real Madrid can maximize its commercial potential year-round. The club has heavily invested in creating a multi-use venue that hosts concerts, events, and corporate gatherings—keeping the roof closed allows for a seamless transition between football matches and non-sporting events.

Reports indicate that this strategy has already paid dividends. Over the past two seasons, Real Madrid has become the first club to surpass a billion euros in annual revenue, largely thanks to the innovative use of the stadium. The Bernabéu is no longer just a football venue; it has evolved into a revenue-generating machine that contributes to the club’s long-term financial health.

Weather Control and Pitch Preservation

Another significant reason for keeping the roof closed is to protect the playing surface. Open-air stadiums are often subject to the unpredictable elements, including rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. By maintaining a controlled environment, Real Madrid ensures optimal playing conditions for their team, reducing the risk of weather-related disruptions.

A perfect pitch means fewer injuries, better technical play, and an overall higher standard of football. Given the club’s investment in world-class players, it makes sense to maintain conditions that allow them to perform at their peak every single match.

Positioning for the 2030 World Cup Final

Recent reports suggest that Florentino Pérez is already planning for the future, with ambitions to secure the Santiago Bernabéu as the venue for the 2030 World Cup final. Spain, along with Morocco and Portugal, has been selected to co-host the tournament, and Real Madrid’s home ground is among the top contenders to stage the historic match.

To further strengthen its case, Pérez is rumored to be exploring ways to expand the stadium’s capacity. Hosting a World Cup final would not only be a monumental achievement for the club but would also generate unprecedented revenue and global exposure for Real Madrid.

The Competitive and Financial Future

While some traditionalists may argue that an open-roof stadium provides a more natural football experience, the benefits of a closed Bernabéu far outweigh any nostalgic sentiment. Under Florentino Pérez’s leadership, Real Madrid has always been at the forefront of innovation—whether in squad building, marketing, or infrastructure development.

The decision to maintain a closed-roof policy aligns with the club’s broader mission: to remain the most dominant and financially robust institution in world football. From boosting home-field advantage to creating a unique spectacle that attracts global attention, the strategy is another masterstroke by a president who continues to redefine the modern football landscape.

In the end, the closed Bernabéu is more than just a stadium modification—it is a symbol of Real Madrid’s ambition, vision, and relentless pursuit of greatness.