The velodrome in Brno will cost twice as much and will also offer accommodation

Brno - The planned construction of a velodrome in Brno in Komárov will cost twice as much as originally estimated. It is expected to be around 800 million crowns compared to the original 350 to 400 million. Deputy Mayor Petr Hladík (KDU-ČSL) told ČTK today that the velodrome will also include accommodation, a restaurant, and a gym, and the works will include flood protection in the surrounding area costing tens of millions. The stadium will be located near the river.

The current cycling oval is 400 meters long and is located at the exhibition grounds, but it is only partially covered. The new one will be 250 meters, fully covered, and will offer seating for about 2,500 spectators. Cyclists have been striving for the new circuit for a long time. If everything goes smoothly, construction should begin in 2020 to 2021, added the deputy.

Brno initially considered the oval for 350 to 400 million. "However, during detailed studies, we also dealt with flood protection measures and another issue was whether we would want to subsidize the oval's operation long-term, or if we would add something to improve the operational economics of the building," said Hladík.

According to him, the city has decided to include such facilities as a restaurant, gym, accommodation with a capacity for 20 people, and also a hypobaric center in the space between the tilted track and the building's shell. In this center, cyclists can train on a stationary bike in a special room, adjusting the air to simulate conditions comparable to mountainous environments, and so on. "These facilities will improve the economic operation so that Brno will not have to subsidize it in a significant way. I believe that creating sustainable investments is the right direction," said Hladík.

According to him, the city is negotiating with the state about financial participation. Nothing has been agreed upon yet. Hladík stated that the intention is that regarding sports infrastructure for top-level sports across the republic, the state should cover about half of the costs, while the other half should be provided by the cities and regions. According to Hladík, a covered velodrome is currently missing in the Czech Republic.