Winterthur puts the Schützi expansion to a public vote

On 27 September 2026, Winterthur will vote on a proposal to allocate 35.13 million Swiss francs for new end-stand stands and an operations building at the Schützenwiese. The development is intended to modernise the outdated infrastructure by 2029, increase capacity and ensure that matches can continue to be played during the construction period.

In April 2026, the City Council approved the commitment appropriation by 51 votes to 1, with 2 abstentions, thereby paving the way for a local referendum. The plans include two new end stands and a new operations and changing rooms building. Construction is to take place in phases from 2027 onwards, so that matches can continue to be played at the Schützenwiese.

The city’s role as owner is particularly crucial for the property and site’s future prospects. As the owner of the facility, it is bearing the bulk of the investment. The club is contributing 2.6 million Swiss francs. In addition, there will be contributions from the cantonal sports fund. The proposal therefore aims to functionally renovate a municipal sports facility, ensuring its continued availability for professional matches and other uses.

’scapacity and construction phasesThe Schützenwiese’s capacity is set to increase from the current figure of around 8,700 to 9,900 seats. At the end of 2025, the City Council had applied for a loan of 35.13 million Swiss francs for this first phase of expansion. The background to this is the structural condition of the facility, which dates from the 1950s. The opposite stand was already replaced in 2015 as a first step. This current phase will primarily involve the refurbishment of the end stands and the service areas.

:a key location with the next step still openPolitically, the stadium in Winterthur is viewed not only as a sports facility but also as a visitor attraction and part of the city’s identity. The expansion will also benefit women’s football, youth development and grassroots use, as the project includes new changing rooms and modern infrastructure. The question of the main stand remains a separate issue. Its refurbishment is not part of the referendum on 27 September 2026 and would need to be addressed, both politically and financially, at a later stage.