Burundi football fans can look forward to the completion of Intwari Stadium by March 2025, according to an announcement made Friday by the President of the Burundi Football Federation (FFB), Alexandre Muyenge.
During a press conference, Muyenge confirmed that the long-awaited construction works on the stadium are nearing completion. The venue, built to meet FIFA and CAF standards, will end a two-year absence of international football matches on home soil.
“Regardless of the conditions, Intwari Stadium will be ready by March 2025,” said Muyenge. “However, hosting matches will depend on FIFA’s final evaluation and certification. I assure you that construction will be completed on time.”
The news was met with enthusiasm from football fans. Said, a supporter from Ruyigi eastern province, expressed relief, saying, “The delays have been frustrating. Watching our team play abroad in countries like Tanzania has taken away the spirit of home matches. This stadium will be a game-changer.”
Joelle Kamariza, a Burundian living in Côte d’Ivoire, echoed the excitement, saying: “Having a stadium that meets international standards is an honor. It will boost the morale of our national team and bring fans closer.”
Since renovations began on the former Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium, Burundi has hosted matches in other countries like Tanzania, Malawi, and Morocco, incurring costs of up to $10,000 per match, according to sources.
In 2021, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) banned Burundi’s stadiums from hosting international matches due to non-compliance with global standards. The announcement of Intwari Stadium’s imminent completion marks a significant milestone for Burundian football.
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