ZIFA Wants National Sports Stadium Rehabilitation Expedited
The ZIFA leadership, which is not recognised by FIFA, has commended the government for availing over ZWL$1 billion for the renovation of sporting facilities including the National Sports Stadium (NSS).
The Government has set aside ZWL$1.2 billion in the 2023 National Budget for upgrading sporting facilities across the country.
The National Sports Stadium is the main venue for hosting international matches but was banned by CAF as it does not meet the required standards.
Acting ZIFA president Gift Banda said the renovation of NSS should be expedited so that it meets international standards when ZIFA’s suspension by FIFA is lifted. Banda said:
The emphasis on Zimbabwe’s return to international football has been that when we do so we go back having sorted our issues, having structures and infrastructure in place.
We’ve also been working on mending relations with key stakeholders and Government is one such key stakeholder.
It is good to note that the Government is serious about getting the National Sports Stadium to the required standards.
This means when our suspension is lifted we’ll defend our pride right within our borders.
Hopefully when we return to international football the National Sports Stadium will be ready for us to play international football competitively.
Bucket seats, modern electronic turnstiles, and a venue operations centre (VOC) are some of the outstanding issues that need to be addressed according to FIFA and CAF inspectors. | The Sunday News
