AC Milan and Inter are facing an unexpected legal hurdle in their ambitious stadium project. A private citizen has filed a court challenge against the sale of the San Siro land and surrounding areas to the two clubs, potentially threatening the timeline for construction of the new ground.
The Sale Under Scrutiny
The Milan clubs, operating through Stadio San Siro Spa, completed the purchase of the stadium property from the Municipality of Milan in November 2025. However, according to reports, the citizen's legal team, led by lawyer Braghò, contends that the timing of the transfer was deliberately manipulated to circumvent heritage protections.
The crux of the dispute centres on a crucial date: the deed of sale was formally signed on 5 November, just five days before the San Siro would have qualified for non-transferability status. Under Italian heritage law, buildings reaching 70 years of age gain protection that restricts sale and demolition rights. The challenger argues that Milan's municipality rushed through the transaction to avoid triggering this automatic restriction, which would have made the stadium impossible to sell or demolish.
Municipal Decision Questioned
The legal complaint presents a damaging picture for Palazzo Marino, Milan's city hall. According to the report, municipal officials received explicit warnings in the days preceding the deed recommending they postpone the signing as a precautionary measure. Despite these cautions, the sale proceeded as scheduled, raising questions about the municipality's motives and governance practices.
- The deed was finalised on 5 November 2025
- Non-transferability would have triggered five days later, on 10 November
- The San Siro is approaching its 70-year heritage milestone
- Internal warnings urged officials to delay the transaction
This development adds fresh complexity to an already complicated project. The new stadium remains central to AC Milan and Inter's strategic ambitions, offering modern facilities, increased revenue streams, and enhanced matchday experiences. The clubs have invested significant capital and political goodwill into the transaction, making any legal delay costly.
The outcome of this court challenge could determine whether the clubs proceed smoothly toward demolition and construction, or face months of legal proceedings that could reshape their timeline and financial planning for the next several years.
