The City of Tallinn and Nordlin Ehitus OÜ signed a contract today to begin the extensive renovation of Kadriorg Stadium. The work will include upgrades to the main stadium arena, the football training arena, and the stadium’s technical infrastructure.

“Kadriorg’s main stadium no longer meets the needs of top athletes for modern training facilities nor provides a suitable environment for hosting international competitions,” said Tallinn Mayor Jevgeni Ossinovski. “As a result of the upgrades, Tallinn will have a modern sports facility capable of hosting high-level competitions and continuing to serve as a venue where Estonian athletes can showcase their skills. At the same time, the entire sports infrastructure will be significantly improved, creating conditions for training both professional athletes and amateurs.”

The renovation will be carried out in several stages. First, a new Building B connected to the main grandstand by a tunnel will be constructed, offering modern training and utility rooms for athletes and coaches. At the same time, the football training arena will be upgraded. These works will be completed within 16 months.

Next, the main grandstand and main arena will undergo reconstruction, including upgrades to technical networks, the transition of buildings to district heating, restoration of gates, and construction of a new opposite grandstand with modern scoreboards. The entire project is scheduled to be completed by December 2027, with construction planned to minimize disruption to existing facilities.

Kadriorg Stadium has long been Estonia’s leading sports venue, hosting international competitions and world record performances, but the complex has become outdated. The outdated facilities of the stadium have repeatedly been highlighted by international organizations. The renovation is essential to provide athletes with modern training conditions and to continue hosting major competitions in Estonia, bringing athletes, spectators, and international media to the country.

According to Olavi Sikka, the stadium director, the venue is well known among athletes, coaches, and sports federations worldwide, and the renovation comes at a historic moment. “Kadriorg Stadium will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. It has witnessed three world records, hosted Olympic champions, and been the stage for major sports events, but it has never undergone such a comprehensive upgrade.”

The construction will cost €17.1 million (excluding VAT) and will be carried out by Nordlin Ehitus OÜ, the winner of the public tender. Separate procurements have already delivered a renovated athletics training arena in 2021, upgraded stadium lighting, and improved electrical infrastructure by spring 2023.