Infantino Hails Intwari Stadium Inauguration as Milestone for Burundian Football

Infantino Hails Intwari Stadium Inauguration as Milestone for Burundian Football

By Admin 

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hailed the inauguration of the refurbished Intwari Stadium in Bujumbura as a landmark moment for Burundian football, describing the FIFA Forward–supported project as a symbol of progress, opportunity and renewed ambition.

Speaking in a video message played during the official opening ceremony, Infantino congratulated Burundi on the completion of the renovation and highlighted the collaborative nature of the project.

“The venue is an outstanding example of how FIFA can work together with governments and FIFA Member Associations to make football more accessible to communities around the world,” Infantino said. “I am especially grateful to President Ndayishimiye.”

Originally opened in the early 1960s, the 15,000-capacity Intwari Stadium — whose name translates to “Stadium of Heroes” in Kirundi — had fallen below CAF and FIFA standards in recent years, forcing Burundi’s national teams to stage international fixtures outside the country.

Renovation works began in 2022 and were completed in late 2025 through funding provided by the FIFA Forward programme, paving the way for the return of international football to Burundian soil.

Infantino recalled his visit to the stadium in October 2023, noting the commitment shown by all parties involved.

“I was moved by the enthusiasm of everyone involved in this project to provide a fitting home for Burundian football, and their passion for our wonderful sport,” he said.

The three-year refurbishment included the installation of an artificial playing surface and four floodlights to enable night matches, as well as significant upgrades to dressing rooms, dugouts and other essential infrastructure. The modernisation ensures the stadium now meets international standards and can host both domestic competitions and high-level international fixtures.

FIFA Council member Souleiman Hassan Waberi praised the leadership and determination behind the project, citing the roles played by President Évariste Ndayishimiye and Football Federation of Burundi (FFB) President Alexandre Muyenge.

“The determination to modernise Burundi’s infrastructure and the commitment to meeting international standards have been exemplary,” Waberi said, describing the initiative as a reflection of “steadfast leadership”.

FFB President Muyenge underscored the importance of the stadium’s reopening for Burundian football.

“For many years, international matches were held abroad. Today, we have the privilege of organising them on our own soil,” he said. “This is a major advancement made possible through the state’s commitment.”

Infantino also highlighted the broader impact of the project on the development of the game in Burundi.

“It is fantastic that Burundi will now be able to host competitive international matches,” he said. “Playing in front of your own public not only gives the team an added advantage, but it will also inspire young people.”

Waberi concluded by capturing the wider significance of the occasion: “It is more than just concrete and turf. It is a place where dreams will be born and where the heroes of tomorrow will rise.”