Sydney’s Allianz Stadium is about to close its doors for 10 weeks while urgent drainage repairs are carried out. The $828 million venue, which only opened in 2022, has been plagued by waterlogging problems since day one. The good news for taxpayers is that the work will be covered under warranty, meaning the bill won’t fall on the public purse.
Why the Stadium Needs Repairs
A recent investigation found the drainage system was compromised because the sand layer beneath the turf contained up to 9% clay and silt. This contamination means the surface can only drain 40 mm of water per hour, well short of the 300 to 600 mm per hour required for elite sport.
Premier Chris Minns called the situation “concerning” but confirmed the builder would cover the costs. “The stadium is still under warranty,” he said, “so I don’t anticipate any cost for NSW taxpayers.”
When the Closure Will Happen
The stadium will host the Wallabies’ Test against Argentina on 13 September, before shutting down for the 10-week fix. Turf will then be relaid following a series of major concerts, including Kendrick Lamar in December, so that the venue is ready for sport again in early 2026.
Impact on Sydney FC and Fans
The timing is especially tough for Sydney FC, whose A-League season begins in October. The club says moving its first home games elsewhere will be “hugely disruptive” and “financially detrimental.” Fans will likely have to travel to alternative venues such as Leichhardt Oval while the works are carried out.
A History of Problems
Since reopening, Allianz Stadium has faced repeated criticism over its surface. Heavy rain often left the pitch waterlogged, forcing mid-season turf replacements that failed to solve the deeper issue. This 10-week closure is the most significant attempt yet to fix the problem once and for all.
What’s Next?
The key questions now are: will this be the final fix, and how smoothly can Sydney FC and other tenants adapt in the meantime? The stadium is one of Sydney’s most important sporting and entertainment venues, and its ongoing teething issues have put pressure on both the operators and the state government.
For now, taxpayers can take comfort in knowing the repair costs aren’t coming out of their pockets. But with fans, clubs and promoters all affected, Allianz Stadium’s next few months will be a test of patience, and of whether the fixes truly hold up.
