Francesco Calvo has stressed that Aston Villa's careful approach to securing a naming rights partner for Villa Park is driven by a desire to protect the stadium's heritage, ensuring any commercial agreement respects its status as a 'football cathedral'. The stadium will reduce capacity to 37,000 next season before increasing to over 50,000 following the North Stand redevelopment, which Calvo accelerated by closing the stand ahead of the 2027/28 campaign and UEFA Euro 2028.
Redevelopment plans and capacity changes
Calvo, who took over business operations after Chris Heck shelved previous plans, explained the decision to close the North Stand. 'We made some financial calculations and thought about how we could optimise the works,' he said. 'Removing the roof while playing would have been a major challenge. By closing it down, we can improve the football facilities a lot, like dressing rooms, a gym, offices and bathrooms. It was a no-brainer.' He acknowledged the impact on fans, with 5,000 relocated, but hopes the reduced capacity will foster louder support. 'We will have a bigger Villa Park a year after.'
Long-term capacity and tradition
Regarding future expansion, Calvo noted that 50,000 feels like the right capacity. 'These improvements do not happen every day. We have to see how good we are at attracting new fans. Increasing by 8,000 is not automatically obvious we will sell out.' He dismissed any idea of leaving Villa Park, saying, 'It would never cross my mind. Villa Park is a cathedral in football. Aston Villa would not be the same playing in a different stadium.'
Naming rights strategy
Calvo revealed the club is exploring a stadium sponsor but will be cautious. 'At Juventus we built a new stadium, so it was easy. At Camp Nou, we kept the authenticity with Spotify Camp Nou. At Villa Park, we need to be very careful. Not every partner is good for Villa Park, and Villa Park is not good for every partner. We have to keep the authenticity, even in the name.'
Investment in facilities and fan engagement
The club has invested £6 million in general admission improvements over two years, with plans to replace all seats, upgrade hospitality areas, and build a new central kitchen. Calvo emphasised engagement with the Fan Advisory Board, saying, 'I keep asking them where we need to improve. Sometimes we will be able to; other times I will take the blame.' He acknowledged the stadium's 'physical limitations' but pledged continued investment.
