The first-ever fan event is planned to take place within the expanded section of the Etihad Stadium’s (Manchester, England, UK) North Stand on May 20th.
‘MANCHESTER CITY’ stated that the landmark occasion forms part of the phased opening of the expansion with a series of public and private test events designed to assess key operational elements of the facility.
The City of Manchester Stadium, currently known as the Etihad Stadium for sponsorship reasons, is the home of the Premier League club Manchester City F.C. with a domestic football capacity of 52,900 making it the seventh-largest football stadium in England and 11th-largest in the United Kingdom.
‘MANCHESTER CITY’ further stated that the fan event comes with a rider – if the new areas successfully pass initial internal checks the event on May 20th will operate at 50 percent of the additional seating capacity allowing more than 3,500 fans to attend.
If the test event is successful the next phase will see the Manchester City F.C. trial 100 percent capacity at the final Premier League home match of the season against their peer team Aston Villa F.C. The hospitality areas, the fan zone and the wider Medlock Square development (Manchester’s new £300 million entertainment destination) will open later in 2026.
Fan Attendance
The top-flight stated that to ensure that more than 7,000 extra fans can attend the above match they require 3,500 or more fans to attend the 50 percent capacity event so that they can complete the necessary checks. The Manchester City F.C. is encouraging everyone to play their part by attending a special evening of entertainment – and to be among the first to experience the expanded North Stand.
The fans can enjoy appearances from the former players, live music, family-friendly activities, and chances to win ‘money-can’t-buy’ prizes.
Fan Event
Commenting on the first fan event in the expanded North Stand Danny Wilson, Managing Director, Manchester City Operations, said, “After years of planning and construction we’re getting close to using the expanded General Admission (GA) seating section of the North Stand – a significant moment in the history of this club that will see us break the Etihad Stadium’s record matchday attendance. Our aim has always been to open the new GA seating before the end of the 2025-2026 seasons. To do this we must host a number of test events with the evening of entertainment on May 20th playing a vital role. We hope more than 3,500 fans will join us, enjoy the evening with friends and family and be the first to experience the expanded North Stand.”
The event will run from 6 pm to 8 pm with complimentary parking available on site.
Tickets
A ticket comes with a free food item and a soft drink or alcoholic beverage which – unlike on a typical Men’s matchday – can be enjoyed from seats within the stadium Bowl.
Further information regarding the potential tickets for the final home match of the season will be shared in due course.
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