Everton have seen lots of change over the last 12 months, but none bigger than the transition into the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The Friedkin Group have landed on Merseyside and finally brought some stability back to Everton following Farhad Moshiri’s ownership.
New opportunities have opened up for the Blues because of the Hill Dickinson Stadium, which will transform the club’s financial landscape.
Earlier this week, it was confirmed that the Hill Dickinson Stadium will host the 2026 Magic Weekend after beating St James’ Park in the bidding.
However, the move to the new stadium has not been totally seamless, with a number of issues being picked up along the way.
Everton fans have complained about their stadium’s transport links, but another issue could cost them from landing another major sporting event in the future.
Everton v Aston Villa - Premier League
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Hill Dickinson Stadium concerns could soon cost Everton business
Everton are set to profit following the SCR vote last week by all 20 Premier League clubs.
The new stadium has proven to be a real game-changer, with Everton now able to boast a state-of-the-art stadium in their bids to hold major sporting and entertainment events.
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According to comments provided to All Out Rugby League by Rugby League commercial director Rhodri Jones, there are some concerns regarding one issue spotted with Everton’s new home.
Have Everton made a mistake with the Hill Dickinson Stadium’s capacity?
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“I wish it was even bigger. It’s amazing as it is, but 60,000 or 62,000 would be nice. Maybe one day.”
Rugby League are opening discussions over the next possible destination for its major finals beyond 2027, but the Hill Dickinson Stadium’s capacity may prove a sticking point.
Reports have claimed that Everton could increase their stadium capacity quite significantly through seating changes inside the ground.
However, the current 52,000 limit is something that could cost them down the line, with major sporting events requiring some of the biggest venues.
One rugby reporter raved about Everton’s new stadium during the recent Ashes Series fixture, but the finances are not working in the club’s favour when it comes to how the Super League view it.
What the Rugby League have admitted about Everton’s new stadium
Even Birmingham City have revealed their new stadium plans after their owner praised the work done in constructing Everton’s new home.
However, Birmingham have proposed plans to build their stadium with an extra 10,000 seats to what Everton currently boast.
Everton’s new stadium is a host venue for the 2028 Euros, but their limited capacity may prove a real issue when it comes to landing the major sporting finals.
What would you change about Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium? Let us know by leaving a comment
The Rugby League Commercial managing director, Jones, has admitted that the huge difference in tickets available between Old Trafford and the Hill Dickinson is significant.
“Economics will play a key part in that. Old Trafford has the ability to host 70,000 people. Hill Dickinson is 52,000. Those 18,000 seats are quite valuable,” Jones said.
“That is the biggest factor for us, but we have to evolve, and we have to move forward. There’s a stadium just out here [Etihad] that will move to 60,000 for the start of the next football season. The economics will play a part.
“We’re in a good place. We’ve added Everton to the roster of rugby league stadia, which I think is a positive for the sport. We’re wanted by Everton, which is another key thing to consider. We’re looking forward to it.”
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