Quebec government approves interior renovation for Montreal’s Olympic Stadium

Quebec's government has given the green light for extensive interior renovations at Montreal's Olympic Stadium, Tourism Minister Amélie Dionne announced Friday. This decision follows the approval of an $870-million project to replace the stadium's retractable roof with a permanent structure, a move initiated in 2024 due to the prohibitive cost of demolition.

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Today, we are taking another important step toward an Olympic Stadium built for the future. Right now, there is no other venue here capable of hosting more than 20,000 spectators for major international tours. Quebec deserves a modern facility to host those tours, as well as major sporting, cultural and entertainment events.

The upcoming interior work will focus on redesigning the seating arrangements to bring fans closer to the field, creating a more intimate experience. The plans also include the addition of premium suites and an overall upgrade of washroom and food concession facilities. The lower bowl is slated for reconfiguration into a rectangular layout, suitable for hosting football or soccer matches.

These renovations, announced on the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Olympics opening ceremony, are expected to be completed by 2028, alongside the new roof. The government has tasked the Olympic Park with negotiating contributions from private partners to help fund the seating and hospitality upgrades. While the exact cost of the interior renovation has not yet been revealed, the project aims to transform the stadium into a versatile venue capable of hosting major international tours, sporting events, and cultural festivals.

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Let’s not forget this is the only large covered stadium in Eastern Canada that can hold more than 50,000 people for major international tours. Given market interest in a modernized venue, our stadium has everything it needs to become a major driver of prosperity for Quebec.

The upgrades are particularly significant for Major League Soccer club CF Montréal, which will require a winter-ready venue when the league shifts to a winter calendar in 2027. MLS Commissioner Don Garber had previously urged the government to "finish the job," emphasizing the interior overhaul's importance for the team's long-term future. The stadium, a landmark in Eastern Canada, is envisioned to become a significant economic driver for Quebec, capable of accommodating over 50,000 spectators for major events.

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finish the job