Farewell Santiago Bernabéu? Here’s the new name for Real Madrid’s legendary stadium

Real Madrid are undergoing a discreet but significant transformation: their legendary stadium, the Santiago Bernabéu, is changing its name. According to Marca, the Casa Blanca club has opted for ‘Bernabéu’, and the reason is rather unexpected.

Real Madrid’s legendary Santiago Bernabéu stadium is now referred to simply as ‘Bernabéu’. For several months now, the full name of Madrid’s legendary stadium, Santiago Bernabéu, has been abbreviated in the club’s official media. This change can be seen on the stadium’s dedicated website, on the official social networks and even on the sightseeing tours, which have been renamed the ‘Bernabéu Tour’.

Even merchandising products, such as models sold in shops or glasses distributed at events, no longer bear the first name of the club’s legendary president: Santiago. According to Marca, the move is part of a drive to modernise Real Madrid’s image. The club wants to make the stadium’s name more accessible and memorable internationally. ‘Bernabéu’ is short, striking and easy to recognise, making it a major asset in branding campaigns.

🚨 BREAKING: Real Madrid have decided to change the name of their stadium:

‘Santiago’ will be removed, it will be called ‘The Bernabéu’. @marca pic.twitter.com/SB7seTSBCd

— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) December 26, 2024

The first tests carried out on the stadium’s new façade, which includes only the family name, confirm this trend. Every detail has been meticulously studied by the club’s marketing managers, who are keen to optimise the use of this emblematic infrastructure. Indeed, with the recent renovation work, the Bernabéu has become much more than just a football stadium. It is now a multifunctional venue that hosts concerts, cultural events and immersive experiences for visitors.

Bernabéu and not Santiago Bernabéu, a decision that raises questions

The change of name for Real Madrid’s stadium has not gone down well with fans. For many, the first name Santiago is inseparable from the club’s history and the legacy left by Santiago Bernabéu, the man behind Real Madrid’s rise in the XXᵉ century. Some see it as a loss of symbolism in favour of commercial considerations. But for the club, it is above all a question of adapting to the demands of the market.

Changement de nom pour le stade Santiago-Bernabeu, l'antre du Real Madrid

Comme l'observe le journal Marca, le prénom Santiago a disparu de la dénomination du stade Bernabeu. Avant un changement officiel pour favoriser le naming de l'enceinte ?

➡️ https://t.co/0zfqrlOxrC pic.twitter.com/jtpsiGVLaG

— L'ÉQUIPE (@lequipe) December 27, 2024

In any case, some regret a direction that is considered too commercial, perceived as a gradual erasure of the club’s historical roots. Yet Real Madrid insists it intends to preserve this heritage. Real Madrid is no longer content to be just a football club: it is positioning itself as a global brand, with its stadium as its flagship showcase.