As the countdown to the 2025 Missouri Tigers football season opener reaches just 10 days, fans heading to Columbia are going to be in for a very different game-day experience — starting with their first look at the ongoing transformation of Memorial Stadium.
If you’ve attended games at Faurot Field in the past, get ready for a fresh perspective. The north end of the stadium is currently undergoing a massive overhaul as part of the Memorial Stadium Centennial Project, the most ambitious renovation in Mizzou Athletics history. With a total budget of $250 million, this project aims to reshape the fan experience while preserving the traditions that make Tigers football special.
Progress and Timeline: What to Expect
Despite the scale of the project, Mizzou officials remain confident in their timeline. Athletic Director Laird Veatch provided an update earlier this week, stating that the Centennial Project remains on schedule for completion before the start of the 2026 football season. That means while fans will definitely see a work-in-progress this year, the end result is steadily taking shape.
“It is moving forward really well,” Veatch said during Monday’s update. “We are closing in on $100 million in gifts and pledges towards this project of our goal for $125 million. … We do remain on target from a construction standpoint.”
Crews have been working diligently throughout the summer, sometimes operating in 24-hour shifts to keep the project on pace. Fans can expect to see cranes, scaffolding, and blocked-off sections of the stadium throughout the 2025 season. However, officials have made it clear that construction will pause on game days to ensure safety and preserve the game-day atmosphere.
What This Means for Fans on Game Day
If you’re heading to the season opener, here’s what you need to know: Arrive early, plan ahead, and be prepared for construction-related adjustments. Parking routes may be slightly altered, and some entry points or fan zones could be temporarily relocated or restructured. Updated maps and fan guides are expected to be released closer to game day to help fans navigate any changes.
While these adjustments might feel inconvenient, most fans agree it’s a small price to pay for the future of Memorial Stadium. Once completed, the renovated north end zone will boast upgraded amenities, expanded premium seating, new fan gathering spaces, and a modernized look that will elevate the overall experience for students, alumni, and visiting fans alike.
Support from the Mizzou Community
Mizzou Nation is already stepping up in a big way. Fundraising efforts are closing in on the $100 million mark, with a final goal of $125 million in private gifts and pledges. That level of support highlights just how much this project means to the university and its supporters.
So if you’re among the sea of black and gold heading to the home opener, embrace the changes and know that you’re witnessing a pivotal moment in Mizzou football history. The sights and sounds might be a little different this season, but the heart of Tigers football remains the same — and the future is brighter than ever.