Marca: Thanks to new inventions, the Bernabeu stadium’s underground turf technology is expected to be promoted around the world

According to Marca, a new patented technology inspired by the underground facilities at the Santiago Bernabeu has the potential to transform any stadium into a multi-functional space that can be used all year round.

Two years ago, at Real Madrid's annual general meeting, Florentino said in a proud and humorous tone: "I dare not say that the underground lawn technology is my idea...well, it is indeed mine." He recalled one of the most surprising achievements during his management of Real Madrid: the underground facilities of the Bernabeu Stadium.

In an engineering feat unique in the world, natural turf was removed from the Santiago Bernabeu and stored beneath the pitch. This innovative technology, developed together with Sener Engineering, makes the Bernabeu a multifunctional stadium capable of hosting a variety of events 365 days a year without damaging its turf. This technical feat aroused the admiration and envy of the football world.

However, the story does not end there. Sener Engineering has now taken another step forward with the launch of Epigea, a simpler, more flexible and lower-cost technology that has been registered as a new patent.

The move is significant: since it is a different technology, Sener may be able to bypass the exclusive agreement it signed with Real Madrid, which prohibits it from selling products and technologies similar to the underground facilities at the Bernabeu Stadium in Europe for thirty years.

Epigea technology: turning stadiums into multi-functional spaces, increasing revenue

"Epigea shows how technology can increase club wealth and create new business models. It is a simple and smart solution that can transform stadiums into multi-functional spaces, thereby maximizing revenue and protecting the playing field from impact." Sener explains.

How Epigea Works

Unlike the Hypogea system, which stores turf underground, Epigea uses retractable trays that can be unfolded to cover the field or hidden behind the stands, depending on the stadium design. It is highly architecturally integrated: it does not impact spectator visibility, capacity or experience, and it is suitable for both new and existing stadiums, and is modular and flexible.

In addition to advanced engineering technology, Epigea also focuses on stadium operation efficiency and profitability. The system ensures that while the quality of the turf is not compromised, the club can increase revenue by hosting non-sporting events. Its design provides full external accessibility, allowing spectators and logistics vehicles to flow smoothly without disturbing the pitch or ancillary areas.

The technology that once transformed the Santiago Bernabeu now seeks to transform the entire sporting world

From a technical perspective, Epigea's range of retractable trays can be hidden away when not in use. This automated process can transform a stadium into a venue suitable for matches, concerts, cultural performances or corporate events in a matter of hours. As a result, a stadium's use time can increase from approximately 60 hours per year to over 8,000 hours, becoming an infrastructure that creates value and revenue throughout the year.

The economic potential of this new technology is clear, and clubs may recoup their investment within a short period of time, depending on their business model.

In order to strengthen its expansion, Sener Engineering Company signed a cooperation agreement with Zertior Company. Zertior, a company focused on developing business models and stadium operations, will provide additional services including consulting, financing and management.

Epigea thus becomes a "one-stop" solution that can transform any stadium in the world into a sustained revenue stream. The idea that once transformed the Santiago Bernabeu is now looking to change the world.

If Hypogea is a revolutionary innovation that turns a stadium into a global icon, then Epigea promotes this concept to every corner of the world at a lower cost.