A priori, Kylian Mbappé’s goals are not in question. Spanish justice has opened the way for a possible criminal trial against Real Madrid for “noise pollution” generated during concerts organized at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in 2024, according to a court document consulted by AFP on Thursday. In an order dated January 15, the investigating judge in charge of the case considers that there are sufficient “indications” to qualify the nuisances denounced by a residents’ association as a criminal offense.
The judge thus affirms that all concerts organized between April 26 and September 8, 2024, including that of American superstar Taylor Swift, “exceeded the sound limits” established by the municipality. This procedure targets the company Real Madrid Estadio, which operates the legendary Madrid stadium, renovated in 2023 to host the biggest world events, as well as its administrator, José Angel Sanchez, right hand of club president Florentino Pérez.
No concert since September
It is this entity which is deemed responsible for the noise pollution, even if the concerts were organized by external promoters. The Spanish club is thus accused of having made its enclosure available knowing that the sound insulation was not sufficient, leading to a potential harm to the health and quality of life of local residents. The Santiago Bernabéu stadium, one of the largest venues in Europe with a capacity of 84,000 seats, is located in the heart of the Chamartin district and therefore largely surrounded by residential buildings.
The Madrid club, which is expected to spend more than 1.5 billion euros to renovate its stadium, was counting on several technological innovations (LED screens, lawn and retractable roof) to increase its revenues by organizing sporting and cultural events. Since September 2024, the numerous concerts initially planned at the Santiago Bernabéu have, however, taken place in the rival venue, that of Atlético Madrid, the Metropolitano, located outside the city.
