Joan Laporta reveals legendary guest for Spotify Camp Nou kickoff

Joan Laporta has lifted the lid on a spectacular surprise lined up for the Spotify Camp Nou grand reopening.

Barcelona’s highly awaited reopening of the Spotify Camp Nou, after nearly three years of redevelopment, is set to be a historic and emotional occasion for the club and its supporters.

This decision underlines the club’s desire to create a deeper connection with its fanbase and community during the reopening ceremony.

Joan Laporta revealed that the ceremonial kickoff, a key moment that symbolises the city’s footballing heart, will not be performed by any famous former player, but rather by a special person who represents the soul of Barcelona’s “social body.”, as reported by Diario Sport.

Though many expected Lionel Messi—the club’s greatest legend—to take part in the ceremonial kickoff after his recent emotional visit to Camp Nou, Laporta confirmed that Messi will not be involved with this particular honour.

Instead, the club is choosing to highlight someone symbolic, a lifetime Barça socio (member) who stands as a representative of the diverse and passionate supporters that form the backbone of the institution.

Laporta described the reopening as “a historic day” and indicated that the new Camp Nou represents not just a stadium, but a home and legacy for future generations.

While the stadium is still under construction with full capacity and some final phases to be completed by the end of 2026, this reopening event promises a wave of nostalgia mixed with excitement for fans returning to an iconic venue.

The honorary kickoff by a figure emblematic of the club’s social fabric aims to celebrate the collective spirit of Barça beyond individual footballing achievements.

The club will also host a grand tribute to Lionel Messi in due course, with Joan Laporta confirming plans for “the most beautiful tribute in the world” once renovations are fully complete, ensuring the legendary forward’s incomparable contribution is forever etched into Camp Nou history.