The Sporting Clube de Portugal Nucleus in Benedita reopened to the public on August 8th, in its renovated headquarters at the former primary school on Rua da Serradinha. The work began on June 20th and lasted seven weeks, enough time for the space to be ready before the first game of the 2026/2027 Liga Portugal season. The association, founded in May 2012, operates under a protocol with the Junta da Benedita, which provides the hall, and the renovation comes as the nucleus approaches its 15th anniversary in 2027.
According to president Samuel Marques, the goal was to "give the space the dignity it deserves and create better conditions, especially in terms of accessibility and comfort for those who visit the club." The main changes included the demolition of the bar walls, removal of false ceilings, new electrical installation, new counter and appliances, as well as fencing and gate on the porch, a direct response to the repeated acts of vandalism the space has recently been subjected to.
The investment in this first phase was around 5,500 euros, potentially reaching 10,000 euros if all planned work goes ahead. Approximately 60% of the funds came from donations by members, friends, partners, and sponsors. All labor was unpaid, which explains the relatively low cost given the scope of the work. The reopening was well received by members, with positive reactions from those who visited the space on August 8th.
Four windows still need to be replaced, air conditioning installed, and the bathrooms need work, with an estimated timeframe of two months. The nucleus has already drawn up a calendar of events for September and October, which includes a sardine barbecue, grilled pork loin and wild boar on a spit, and the third edition of the Oktoberfest, a thematic event that brings together beer, gastronomy, and music, with association gatherings and live broadcasts of all Sporting CP matches.
