An aquatic centre to dream of
From September 2027, the CST will feature a completely new facility: the Aquatic Centre, where training sessions, competitions and educational courses at the highest level can be held in all aquatic sports. The facility will offer advanced technology, provide an environment that meets the highest expectations in terms of quality, and cater to the needs of both beginners and elite athletes.
The centrepiece will be the 50 × 25-metre Olympic-size pool, featuring 10 lanes and a uniform depth of 3 metres. Thanks to two movable partition walls, the pool will be fully adaptable, allowing the space to be configured according to different needs. It will be possible to create 10 lanes of 50 metres, 20 lanes of 25 metres, or separate areas for different disciplines, including swimming, water polo, artistic swimming and other aquatic activities taking place simultaneously in parallel groups. The pool will also feature a movable floor measuring 15 × 25 metres for teaching activities and aqua gym classes.
The side walls of the Olympic-size pool will be able to open completely. This will create a bright, semi-open pool during the summer months, with ideal climatic conditions for training camps.
Technology for peak performance
The facility will be equipped with advanced technology to support high-level performance, including a video analysis station and latest-generation starting blocks. Underwater and above-water cameras will be installed, along with high-precision analysis tools to assess starts, turns using Kistler technology, and the accuracy of technical movements. A Swiss Timing timing system and scoreboard will also be provided.
A counter-current swimming flume
The new swimming flume will allow the current speed to be precisely adjusted up to 2.5 m/s for counter-current swimming. It will provide ideal conditions for the individual assessment of technical aspects, rehabilitation training and performance testing, supported by a three-dimensional video analysis system.
A versatile diving pool
This area of the Aquatic Centre will provide facilities for the Olympic diving programme, with platforms up to 10 metres high and 1- and 3-metre springboards that comply with World Aquatics regulations. The pool will be equipped with a water aeration system to soften entry into the water and will also be suitable for other sports, including swimming, with eight 25-metre lanes, and artistic swimming.
The adjustable hydraulic springboard, which can be set at heights ranging from 0.5 to 4 metres, together with a dryland training facility, will provide added value for advanced technical training and education courses.
A wellness area for recovery
The facility will also include a fitness room equipped with specialist training equipment for aquatic sports. On the top floor, there will be a recovery area featuring a sauna and steam bath, a whirlpool, an ice bath and a relaxation room.
The Aquatic Centre will be able to host sporting events in the disciplines mentioned above, with modular stands providing seating for up to 900 spectators.
Text: Martina Ponti
Photos: COOPI Architekten / BBL / OVI Images GmbH