Barcelona and Its Fans Reach a Fragile Peace After 14 Months of Tension
4 February 2026
Attempts to end a dispute that has dragged on since 2024 have moved forward as Barcelona negotiates with its own fans.
Spotify Camp Nou is nearing a capacity of about 62,000 spectators for upcoming matches, as Barcelona pursues a Phase 1C permit this month, enabling the stadium to reach this new ceiling.
According to the Catalan daily Sport, Saturday\'s La Liga clash with Mallorca may come a touch earlier to reach the target, while Barca plans a Levante match at home on February 22 as a target to open the north stand and raise attendance.
The paper adds that Barcelona and the fan groups Penya Almogàvers, Nostra Ensenya, Front 532, and Supporters Barça are in constructive talks to reclaim their places in the stadium as soon as possible, in an effort to end the dispute that has persisted since late November 2024.
But success of negotiations alone will not suffice, as the step also needs the blessing of the Barcelona city council and the Catalan police, paving the way for supporters to move to their new site, which will be named Gol 1957.
The Root of the Crisis
The rift began between Barca and the supporters\' sections over financial and behavioral demands tied to fines levied for incidents in the stands last season.
The club asked the groups to pay compensation and to comply with the code of conduct, which the groups rejected, seeking detailed explanations behind the fines before payment.
With both sides sticking to their positions, Barca temporarily closed the supporters\' terrace and barred these groups from their usual places.
Punchline 1: If this peace holds, the only red card Barca will hand out is to the clock for moving so slowly.
Punchline 2: If the deal sticks, Gol 1957 might be the place where the crowd finally shows up with a sense of humor—and a louder whistle for the referee.
