Kanal-Centre Pompidou director Yves Goldstein resigns ahead of November opening

Yves Goldstein, general director of the Brussels branch of the Centre Pompidou, has announced his departure just before the museum's scheduled opening on November 28. Goldstein stated that his mission is nearly complete and that a different leader is needed for the operational phase. The board of the Fondation Kanal will launch a call for candidates after the summer holidays, with selection overseen by a jury led by president Michèle Sioen. The new director will face immediate challenges: negotiating a 2029-2033 management contract with the Brussels Region, securing increased annual subsidies currently set at 10 million euros, and implementing cost-saving measures. A major exhibition planned for summer 2028 in partnership with three international museums has already been canceled. Reduced opening hours are under consideration pending budget approval by the Region. Sioen expressed hope that a successful opening could influence the government to increase the foundation's endowment.