Bucharest’s National Arena is set to enter a new phase following recent challenges that prevented the stadium from hosting matches. Mayor Ciprian Ciucu has announced that the turf issues have been resolved, ensuring a focus on sports management at Romania’s largest stadium.
The last match held at the National Arena was between Dinamo and Rapid on April 26, 2026, which ended with a 3-1 victory for Dinamo. The next scheduled game at the stadium in Bucharest is FCSB vs. Petrolul on September 14.
In an exclusive statement, Ciucu assured that the municipality has taken charge of the turf situation, enabling future matches to take place under optimal conditions. “We have addressed the turf at the National Arena! From now on, matches will be held in the best conditions! We must invest in sports as much as possible. The National Arena needs better management to be ready on time,” the mayor stated.
Prioritizing Sports at the National Arena
Ciucu acknowledged that at the beginning of his term, he was unaware of all the administrative challenges regarding the National Arena, admitting that these issues became apparent over time. “I had no way of knowing all the constraints from the start. I am learning them as I go! But we will definitely prioritize sports at the National Arena to avoid such disruptions in the future. I regret that this has happened; it was never my intention,” he added.
One major issue that needs to be addressed is the scheduling of events at the National Arena. Ciucu stated he will personally oversee the stadium’s calendar to prevent sports events from being affected by other activities. “The contract stipulates that the turf must be replaced after concerts. However, I can assure sports fans that I will personally monitor the calendar! I haven’t done it until now… I will ensure that concerts are primarily scheduled in summer, and sports competitions will take place in autumn, winter, and spring to minimize conflicts,” he noted.
Let’s not make a mountain out of a molehill. I truly regret that this has happened. I sincerely apologize… The Bucharest City Hall is investing significant funds to ensure the National Arena is in excellent condition!” – Ciprian Ciucu, Mayor of Bucharest
Response to Mihai Stoica: “I Do Not Hate FCSB!”
The mayor also addressed Mihai Stoica, a representative of FCSB, following comments made about a previous statement where Ciucu did not mention the team’s name. “I want to send a message to Mr. Stoica on this occasion. I do not hate FCSB! I have no negative feelings toward the team, God forbid! I respect all teams and clubs, as there are people who dedicate their lives to sports and striving for success. Mr. Stoica can rest assured; I do not hate FCSB! That thought is far from me,” Ciucu expressed.
He clarified why he did not mention FCSB when discussing match scheduling at the National Arena. “I did not say their name back then because I couldn’t remember who they were playing. Dinamo came to me and said they wanted to play at the National Arena, and I forgot. There was no intention behind it!” Ciucu explained.
