Bulawayo’s Stadia in Dire Need of Upgrade for International Football

Bulawayo’s Mayor, David Coltart, has highlighted the critical need to refurbish local sports venues to host international football matches once more.

Zimbabwe’s national football team, the Warriors, have been forced to play home matches abroad due to inadequate facilities back home.

This situation stems from a ban by FIFA and CAF because the current stadiums do not meet the required international specifications.

Mayor Coltart outlined plans to improve key venues like Barbourfields, Hartsfield, and Queens, aiming to bring them up to standard.

In a candid discussion with NewZimbabwe.com, Coltart emphasized the urgency of rehabilitating these crucial sports facilities in Bulawayo.

Budget constraints have, however, put a damper on these aspirations, with Coltart admitting there are no current plans for upgrades.

He suggested that allocating 7% of the city’s budget to sports infrastructure could transform Barbourfields into a venue worthy of international games.

The government has mandated local authorities to dedicate 7% of their budgets to such improvements, offering a glimmer of hope.

Coltart emphasized maintenance over new constructions, stating, “There are no plans to construct any new stadia – we have to fix what we already have.”

Despite this hopeful strategy, the mayor acknowledged the uncertainty regarding the funds needed for these ambitious upgrades.

He also shed light on Queens Sports Club, currently under lease to Zimbabwe Cricket, suggesting its refurbishment is a higher priority than new projects in Victoria Falls.

The National Sports Stadium in Harare, with its 60,000 capacity, has faced similar issues, leading to its own ban by FIFA and CAF.

The lack of funding and clear planning continues to challenge Bulawayo’s dreams of hosting international football once again, leaving fans and officials alike in a state of anticipation for better days ahead.