Anoeta expands to 42,247 seats, but San Sebastián is still hesitating

Work began at the end of May 2026 at the Anoeta stadium (Reale Arena). For roughly €10 million, Real Sociedad is adding rows at the top of the side stands and in the corners: capacity will rise from 39,500 to 42,247 seats, above the 40,000-seat (net capacity) threshold FIFA requires for a World Cup stadium. The bulk of the work is due to be ready for the 2026-27 season, with the finishing touches (lifts, access) running to December 2026.

A city that has not said yes

The paradox: the stadium is getting ready, but San Sebastián city council has not confirmed it will take part. Mayor Jon Insausti has raised the cost, the traffic and the tourist pressure on a city of 190,000 residents, and left the door open to withdrawal. A decision was announced for “after the summer of 2026”.

A two-headed Basque bid

On 1 June 2026, the Basque government merged the Bilbao and San Sebastián bids into one, with two matches per stadium. At the end of June, Bilbao set out its conditions to FIFA: free transport for ticket holders, upgrades to the VIP areas, commercial requirements, and a refusal of “excessive costs”. The city has to decide before November 2026.

If either city pulled out, Vigo (Balaídos), already put forward by the federation, would see its chances improve.

Practical details

Anoeta is about 2 km from the centre: Dbus buses (€1.95 in cash, €0.59 with the Mugi card, up to 20 journeys a month) or the Euskotren train. From Madrid, allow at least 5h20 by train — there is no high-speed line.