Sri Lanka Football (SLF) is on the brink of receiving its first annual grant following the recent lift of a ban. Sources indicate that this anticipated financial boost is set to materialize at the dawn of the new year, marking a crucial step towards fulfilling SLF’s long-standing dream of securing a dedicated football ground to host international tournaments.
The announcement came from Sri Lanka Football President Jaswar Umar, who shared insights into the positive outcomes of his recent overseas visit, where he met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The discussions proved fruitful, leading to FIFA’s commitment to support SLF in realizing its ambition.
SLF is currently engaged in negotiations to acquire a suitable property, either in Colombo or its suburbs, to establish a fully-fledged stadium. The process is underway and may reach a conclusion in the near future.
Jaswar Umar emphasized the importance of having a dedicated home venue, stating, “As a team, we have given priority to put up a fully-fledged stadium as a home venue, which is a long-standing need. We are hunting for land within Colombo or in the suburbs. We have approached FIFA, and they have shown their willingness to support us, without which it will be a herculean task.”
He further outlined the commitment to kickstart the project with the support of FIFA as the new year dawns.
Sri Lanka, having obtained FIFA membership in 1952 and AFC’s membership in 1954, has relied on the Sugathadasa Stadium as its home ground. With the Racecourse ground renovated in 2014 for International Rugby Union, football tournaments have shared the venue.
To develop the sport further, Jaswar stressed the need for basic infrastructure. “Hosting an international event is a big issue for us; the only venue we have is the Race Course Stadium. Even the Racecourse Stadium needs upgrading, especially with regard to the players’ dressing rooms and some other basic facilities, which are well below international standards. We have to depend on this venue until such time we have our own structure, which is on the cards,” he added.
The potential realization of a fully-pledged football ground signifies a crucial milestone for Sri Lanka Football, with the support of FIFA serving as a catalyst for the sport’s development in the country.
SAJEEWA JAYAKODY