#TDS24 Preview: FC Sion’s Matterhorn Coliseum

Marco Degennaro, Director General at FC Sion, connected with us ahead of our 12th Design & Development Summit #TDS24 to talk about what it will take to deliver the vision Swiss Super League club’s proposed new ‘Matterhorn Coliseum’ stadium.

TheStadiumBusiness: What are the most exciting developments in the field of venue design/development? or What are the key drivers behind your project?

Marco Degennaro: As we look toward the fast-advancing future of stadium design, adaptability will be key. Integrating artificial intelligence, such as AI-driven solutions to independently film events, is becoming increasingly vital. At the same time, sound quality demands careful attention—inside the stadium, it must be flawless while remaining non-invasive to the surrounding community.

Immersive experiences will also rely on advancements like LED displays and video walls, creating captivating environments for fans. Hospitality is set to become a significant differentiator, with our stadium offering an experience akin to staying in a luxury hotel. Every touchpoint matters.

Given the challenging weather conditions in our location, functional roof enclosures and ground cover systems will be essential for maintaining optimal conditions during events. We have to work around the winter season, which will be an asset for us because around us, there are the most peaks above 4,000m in Europe. To maximise revenue and engagement, our goal is to multiply the number of events hosted, ensuring the stadium is used year-round for various experiences.

These strategies are the blueprint for the future of our stadium, where versatility, technology, and the fan experience intersect.

TSB: What’s in the pipeline for FC Sion over the next six to 12 months?

MD: Finalising land ownership discussions with the city is a critical step toward moving the project forward. Simultaneously, ongoing conversations with the Canton about the overall project and potential funding are essential to ensure all stakeholders are aligned. These dialogues will set the stage for submitting the final design to secure building permits, paving the way for construction to begin as scheduled in January 2026. By staying proactive and collaborative, we can keep the project on track and meet our milestones efficiently.

TSB: What are you most looking forward to about the Design & Development Summit 2024?

MD: Connecting with experts with firsthand experience designing and building new stadiums will be invaluable. Engaging with peers on a similar journey will allow us to exchange insights and address common challenges. Understanding how major themes like ecology, sustainability, and design innovation are handled by other clubs in different countries will offer fresh perspectives. By the end of the Design & Development Summit 2024, we aim to leave with richer knowledge and a deeper understanding that will inform our future decisions.

See who else will be joining us to explore next-gen spaces for sports and entertainment at #TDS24 here.

Explore the future of stadium design with Danny and hundreds of other venue sector leaders, exclusively at #TDS24 at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, on December 2-4.