The completion date for the new national indoor sports stadium is projected for late 2026 or early 2027, according to Gunnar Einarsson, Chair of the Executive Committee overseeing the project. In an interview with RÚV today, Gunnar revealed plans to advertise an architectural design competition for the stadium as early as next month, contingent upon government approval.
Prepared to advertise architectural design competition
Gunnar Einarsson, Chair of the Executive Committee for the new national indoor sports stadium, estimates the facility will be completed either in late 2026 or early 2027, according to an interview with RÚV today. The new stadium will be constructed behind the current Laugardalshöllin stadium, in the Laugardalur neighbourhood of Reykjavík.
Gunnar also indicated that the Icelandic Handball Federation (HSÍ) is actively considering a bid to host the IHF World Men’s Handball Championship in either 2029 or 2031. “We submitted a feasibility study in December 2022 and have since received the green light from both city and state authorities to proceed with preparations,” he said. “We are essentially prepared to advertise the architectural design competition in October, pending the government’s final decision and authorization.”
Despite the presentation of a new draft budget yesterday, Gunnar confirmed that the project’s funding remains unaffected. “We initially received ISK 100 million [$746,000/€695,000] from the state and an equal amount from the city to kickstart preparations. Those funds are currently being utilised,” he stated, expressing optimism that the government will soon authorise the committee to proceed with advertising the design competition.
Gunnar acknowledged delays in the project timeline but reaffirmed the projected completion date. “While there have been setbacks, we anticipate the stadium’s completion by late 2026 or early 2027,” he said.
As previously noted, the Icelandic Handball Federation (HSÍ) has also shown interest in Iceland hosting a segment of the IHF World Men’s Handball Championship either 2029 or 2031. Gunnar described this aspiration as “highly realistic,” adding that several national matches would likely precede such an event.
