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Neymar Sr. invests R$1 billion in arena and Hard Rock Hotel to transform Santos

Neymar Pai e Neymar Jr
Photo: Neymar Pai e Neymar Jr - Photo: Instagram

Santos will receive an investment of R$1 billion for the construction of an integrated complex that includes a multipurpose arena and an Hard Rock Hotel. The project, led by Neymar from Silva Santos, father of player Neymar Jr., promises to transform the city into a hub for sport, entertainment and tourism. The works will begin in 2025 and should be completed in 2028, with support from the city hall to speed up permits and necessary procedures.

Estrutura of the complex and strategic location

The project will be installed in Rodovia Anchieta, ensuring easy access for residents and tourists from across the metropolitan region of São Paulo. The arena will have capacity for 45 thousand people and will be designed according to the highest Fifa standards, exceeding the capacity of the traditional Vila Belmiro by three times. The innovative structure will include a retractable synthetic turf, allowing the stadium to quickly adapt to host football matches, large concerts and corporate events without compromising the quality of the pitch.

Hard Rock Hotel Santos will feature 402 themed rooms and suites decorated with memorabilia from famous artists. The leisure infrastructure will include an infinity pool with panoramic views of the city, a state-of-the-art spa, fusion restaurants and bars with live shows, consolidating the development as a complete destination for entertainment and rest.

Impacto financial for the Santos FC

Santos Futebol Clube projects to triple its annual box office revenue, going from R$20 million to approximately R$60 million. With the expanded capacity and cutting-edge infrastructure, the club will be able to host a greater number of international competition matches, such as Copa Libertadores games, providing greater visibility and revenue. The commercialization of the stadium’s naming rights will considerably strengthen the club’s financial position, generating crucial resources for investments in infrastructure, squad and youth teams.

The Vila Belmiro will be preserved as an invaluable asset of the club, receiving specific renovations to continue to be able to host smaller games and youth competitions. The logistics of the main squad will be improved with training facilities connected directly to the hotel complex, optimizing the athletes’ performance.

Fontes financing and resource distribution

  • R$400 million from Arab investment funds, representing 40% of the total.
  • R$600 million allocated primarily to the construction of the multipurpose arena.
  • Remaining Valor applied to Hard Rock Hotel, general infrastructure, parking and road improvements.

The total investment will be ensured by a robust consortium that combines national and international capital. Arab funds are recognized for extensive experience in large infrastructure projects, including building stadiums for Copa from Mundo to Catar. The strategic distribution of resources aims to ensure functionality and appeal for all parts of the project.

Geração for jobs and economic stimulus

Durante During the three-year construction phase, it is estimated that 1,800 direct and indirect jobs will be created, with priority given to local labor. Após opening, the complex is expected to maintain 1,700 permanent jobs, contributing to reducing unemployment and increasing family income in Baixada Santista. The project will act as one of the main catalysts for regional development, impacting several sectors of the local economy.

Sustentabilidade and execution schedule

Environmental sustainability is a fundamental pillar in the complex’s design. Painéis solar panels for clean energy generation and an advanced rainwater capture and reuse system will be implemented to minimize ecological impact and reduce resource consumption. With environmental licenses in the final approval phase, land preparation is scheduled for the first quarter of 2025. Construction of the stadium’s foundations will begin in the second half of 2025, followed by the assembly of the metallic structure in 2026. The Hard Rock Hotel will be built simultaneously. Acabamentos are projected for 2027, with rigorous operational testing and test events before the official opening in 2028.