Overview
- Chile’s National Sports Institute initially refused to authorise use of Estadio Nacional’s central field because the planned 360-degree stage would place prolonged pressure on the hybrid grass and require about nine days of work that could leave the pitch unable to recover before other events.
- The promoter DG Medios submitted revised technical plans that change stage weight, load distribution and grass-protection measures, and the sports ministry said on Monday it would reconsider the earlier denial.
- Coordinated fan protests by ARMY in 11 cities and about 5,000 people marching in Santiago raised public and political pressure that helped prompt the government to reopen the decision.
- Officials say final approval will require more technical documentation on structural loads, turf protection, installation and dismantling procedures, a mitigation plan for the pitch, and a formal undertaking from DG Medios, and authorities are discussing tighter rules and fines for promoters who sell tickets before formal venue authorisation.
- About 200,000 tickets were sold for the three October dates, alternative venues lack the layout or capacity for BTS’s central stage, and the government’s choice will affect scheduled national football matches, the 2026 Telethon and fans who have already booked travel.