Panathenaic Stadium radical overhaul

Article posted by Coliseum, January 27^th, 2026

Image: Panathenaic Stadium, George E. Koronaios, CC0

The Hellenic Olympic Committee has established a strategic partnership with the Capital Maritime and Trading Corporation and its Chairman and Founder Evangelos Marinakis as part of which the Panathenaic Stadium in Greece will undergo a 360 degree overhaul.

‘hoc.gr’ stated that as part of the collaboration the Capital Maritime and Trading Corporation will bankroll and carry out comprehensive renovation of the Panathenaic Stadium and will boast bells and whistles infrastructure so that the iconic venue can once again host international athletics competitions at the Diamond League level meeting contemporary standards in this entire exercise.

The 60,000-capacity Panathenaic Stadium or Kallimarmaro is a multipurpose stadium in Athens, Greece. One of the main historic attractions of Athens it is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.

‘hoc.gr’ further stated that the project includes the laying down of a new track surface which will meet all international Diamond League specifications as well as the replacement of the existing lighting system of the venue with state-of-the-art light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures. The new lighting arrangement will enhance the beauty of the Panathenaic Stadium while significantly reducing energy consumption and meeting the sustainability initiatives. Beyond its functional purpose it will also create an illuminated nighttime route that highlights the history of the revival of the Olympic Games in the Panathenaic Stadium and will offer a cherishing experience to the Greek and international visitors.

In addition, Marinakis will sponsor the illumination of the façade of the Hellenic Olympic Committee headquarters on Kifissias Avenue through a lighting design by the internationally acclaimed Greek lighting designer Eleftheria Deko renowned for her work on the Acropolis and who has undertaken this project. The lighting scheme is full of innovative concepts by Deko and will lend an aesthetic touch to the headquarters as well as to the City.

Commenting on the renovation of the Panathenaic Stadium Marinakis stated, “The Panathenaic Stadium is far more than a sporting venue. It is a symbol of timeless Greek ideals, fair competition, sportsmanship, and friendship among people. These values were born in ancient Greece, were revived with the first modern Olympic Games of 1896 held in this very stadium and continue to inspire the world today. Our goal is to support this monument over the long term and keep it alive thus establishing the fact that sport is not merely an event but a continuation of values, history and inspiration for future generations.”

Observed Isidoros Kouvelos, President of the Hellenic Olympic Committee, “Evangelos Marinakis is a true man of sport who has consistently and generously supported every initiative that promotes its core values. A devoted supporter of the Olympic Movement and the power of sport he continues to contribute in a meaningful and lasting way both through his initiative to renovate the Panathenaic Stadium which will be able to host major international athletics competitions and through his support of athletes as requested by the Hellenic Olympic Committee.”

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