Luca Martinazzoli to lead CTS Eventim’s Arena Milano

CTS Eventim has appointed Luca Martinazzoli as managing director of Arena Milano ahead of the new venue’s completion later this year.

Martinazzoli will be responsible for operational management, business development and launching the venue as Italy’s “leading cultural and entertainment destination”. He will report to Klaus-Peter Schulenberg, CEO of the Germany-based live entertainment and ticketing firm.

“We are delighted to welcome Luca Martinazzoli to lead Arena Milano at such an exciting time. His proven expertise in branding, strategic planning, and cultural promotion, coupled with his deep understanding of Milan’s unique identity, positions him perfectly to guide the arena’s growth,” Schulenberg says.

“Together, we look forward to shaping a venue that will set new standards for live entertainment and sports, both in Italy and beyond.”

He joins from his role as senior director of business development and strategy at New Guards Group, where he oversaw operations for Off-White and Reebook EU.

Martinazzoli has also served as as head of city marketing for the Municipality of Milan, general manager at Milano & Partners, and in two senior roles at Nike.

“With Milan as a global hub of culture and innovation, the arena presents a unique opportunity”

“It is a privilege to lead Arena Milano during this transformative period and to contribute to the renewal of the city with a project that offers an incomparable entertainment experience not only to its inhabitants but also to people from across Italy, Europe, and the world. With Milan as a global hub of culture and innovation, the arena presents a unique opportunity to inspire audiences and attract world-class events,” Martinazzoli says.

“I am excited to begin assembling a talented team and working together to create an unparalleled experience for visitors from around the world.”

Arena Milano will become Italy’s largest indoor venue when it opens next year, according to Eventim. The €180 million multi-purpose arena, which was initially announced in 2021, will also include an outdoor area of more than 10,000 square metres for open-air events.

Initially, the arena – part of the Milano Santa Giulia urban development project – will be used for the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, with concerts and major events planned for spring 2026.

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