The Den stadium is "booked" for the next millennium // Photo: millwallfc.co.uk.
The parties have finalized all legal documents under the agreement, which runs through 3025.
Within the framework of long-term development
Millwall chairman James Berylson said the agreement with the local authority will allow the club to implement plans to improve the atmosphere at matches, make better use of facilities in the surrounding area during the year and expand the scope of its eponymous community fund.
It is reported that the club reached an agreement in principle with the local council on the deal back in May 2024 and it has now been officially closed. The financial side of the deal has not been disclosed.
Sixth in the club’s history
The Den Stadium is located in south-east London. It was built in 1993 to replace the outdated stadium, which bore the same name and is located 0.5 km from the new arena. The capacity of the stadium is just over 20 thousand people.
“Millwall” was founded in 1885. The current home stadium is the sixth in the history of the club. Its highest achievement is reaching the FA Cup final in 2004, in which it suffered a 0:3 defeat to Manchester United.
With seven rounds to go, Millwall are fourth in the EFL Championship table, thus qualifying for the play-offs and having a chance to compete for a place in the Premier League.
Unprecedented deal
The deal to lease a soccer stadium for such a long period of time is unprecedented even in England, where the issue of ensuring the stability of clubs is given great attention.
In 2017, Chelsea Pitch Owners, which owns the Stamford Bridge stadium, offered former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich to sign a 999-year lease. The Russian businessman refused the offer, insisting on a full buyout of the arena.
