Lublin’s Protracted Stadium Redevelopment

6 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Lublin’s stadium redevelopment stalls as firms challenge tender terms, risking delays and a stadium exile for Motor Lublin fans.

The long-awaited stadium redevelopment at Zygmuntowskie in Lublin has stalled amid procurement disputes and contractor appeals. Consequently, fans now face an uncertain timeline and a possible exile of Motor Lublin during peak seasons.

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Why this matters to Lublin and to fans

Motor Lublin dominates Polish speedway. Moreover, the club has won several national titles in recent years. However, the existing Zygmuntowskie venue feels outdated. As a result, locals cram into the stands each match. Therefore, the city views this project as both prestige and economic investment. In addition, the plan promises conference spaces and year-round events. Thus, the city hopes to turn the stadium into a revenue generator.

Stadium redevelopment: procurement hurdles

City authorities launched a design-and-build tender at the end of March. However, several firms filed appeals to the Krajowa Izba Odwoławcza. Consequently, MOSiR extended the bid deadline by three weeks. Moreover, companies question strict experience requirements. In addition, bidders object to clauses that allow the city to withhold final payments for minor defects. Furthermore, contractors dispute clauses tying payments to proof of subcontractor payments. Therefore, firms call the tender risky. Also, they warn that underground infrastructure maps remain incomplete. As a result, contractors fear bearing unexpected costs under a lump-sum contract.

Timing, relocation and the risk to schedules

The timetable currently foresees closing the stadium after the 2026 season. However, officials plan for the club to play elsewhere in 2027. Meanwhile, rumours mention Łódź and Tarnów as temporary homes. Moreover, the city aims to finish construction in 2028. Nevertheless, bidders consider a 24-month delivery unrealistic. In addition, they worry nine months for design and permits leaves little margin for delays. Consequently, the whole schedule could slide by years. Therefore, fans and sponsors watch developments nervously.

Financial and sporting consequences

The planned venue would seat roughly 16,600 people. Moreover, the city markets it as the largest league speedway stadium in Poland. However, delays could raise costs. In addition, the club already signed star rider Bartosz Zmarzlik through 2028. Therefore, officials aim to have a marquee face at the grand opening. Nevertheless, if work slips the club might wait longer for the new arena. As a result, ticket revenue, sponsor plans and local hospitality businesses may suffer.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: The tender appeals process goes to the Krajowa Izba Odwoławcza, Poland’s national procurement appeals body. Expats should note that municipal entities like MOSiR run local sports facilities and procurement. Also, common Polish administrative abbreviations may appear: ZUS (social insurance), NFZ (public health insurer), PESEL (national ID number). If you plan to work with local contractors, register contracts carefully and ask for written confirmation of payments to subcontractors.

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