Why AC Milan and Inter Milan Share a Stadium
A Shared Home: San Siro
The iconic San Siro stadium, officially known as the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, has served as the shared home of AC Milan and Inter Milan for over 90 years. This unusual arrangement stems from a long-standing agreement between the two clubs, dating back to the 1920s.
Historical Background
In 1925, AC Milan purchased a piece of land in the San Siro district of Milan with the intention of building a new stadium. However, financial constraints forced the club to sell a portion of the land to Inter Milan in 1947. This resulted in the construction of a twin-towered stadium designed by the architects Ragazzi and Corna-Rovedalli.
Joint Ownership and Maintenance
Since then, AC Milan and Inter Milan have jointly owned and maintained San Siro on a 50-50 basis. Both clubs contribute equally to the operating costs and renovations of the stadium. This unique arrangement has allowed them to share the financial burden and maintain the iconic venue.
Distinct Identities
Despite sharing a stadium, AC Milan and Inter Milan maintain their own distinct identities. The "Rossoneri" (red and blacks) of Milan have their home dressing room on the north side of the stadium, while the "Nerazzurri" (black and blues) of Inter have theirs on the south side. Fans of both clubs create a vibrant and passionate atmosphere on match days, with each side having their own dedicated sections.
Proposed Redevelopment
In recent years, plans have emerged to replace San Siro with a new, state-of-the-art stadium. Both AC Milan and Inter Milan have expressed interest in constructing a modern facility that meets their future needs. However, the redevelopment plans are still in development and no timeline has been established.
Conclusion
The shared ownership of San Siro by AC Milan and Inter Milan is a testament to the unique relationship between the two clubs. Despite their fierce rivalry, they have found a way to coexist in one of the most iconic stadiums in world football. As plans for a new stadium continue to take shape, it remains to be seen how the legacy of San Siro will be preserved in the future.
Comments