Rangnick calls for swift decision on new Vienna National Arena
ÖFB‑Teamchef Ralf Rangnick, 68‑year‑old German, is again urging in the ORF football programme “Das Gespräch” with Susanne Schnabl for the construction of a modern event arena in Vienna and emphasizes that three to four private investors are already ready. He also criticised that the issue is not being discussed seriously at the moment.
Rangnick complained that at the moment no open debate about a new stadium is being allowed. “At the moment it is not even permitted to discuss it, but people bring up arguments like with the Ernst‑Happel‑Stadium concerning heritage protection or groundwater,” criticised Rangnick. He has already held talks with the Viennese city government, without any concrete scenarios being discussed.
Investors and financing
According to Rangnick, three to four investors are ready who could take over the entire arena immediately. “We have three or four investors on hand who could be there the day after tomorrow and would take over this entire arena. So that would cost the Republic of Austria not a single euro.”
Despite the criticism, Rangnick considers the Ernst‑Happel‑Stadium in the Viennese Prater to be the optimal location. The good transport connections, the proximity to public transport and the short distance to the city centre are clear advantages. “In terms of location, the site could hardly be better,” he said.
Alternative locations and timetable
At the same time, other green areas in and around Vienna that could be suitable for an arena are being examined. “I would really like, if it happens, that it doesn’t only take place in 15 years, but that I might still get to experience it myself,” he explained.
For the German, the approach must fundamentally change, by first discussing the possibilities before looking for reasons for failure. “If there are truly only winners in a situation, then you can’t constantly look for arguments why it would be better not to do it,” Rangnick emphasized.
Rangnick stresses that he is passionate about the project and that the pace must be increased. “I can’t do otherwise. If I am convinced that there are essentially only reasons in favour, then it is very difficult for me to settle for a no,” he said.