The Timor-Leste government has officially approved the Football Federation of Timor-Leste (FFTL) proposal to construct a new FIFA-standard stadium in Tasi-Tolu, Dili, following a presentation by FFTL President Nilton T. Gusmão dos Santos and Secretary General José Adilson Ribeiro during a Council of Ministers meeting led by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão on June 4, 2025.
Construction of the new stadium is scheduled to begin in 2025 with completion expected in 2026, implemented through a Public-Private Partnership between FFTL and the Government of Timor-Leste via the Ministry of Planning and Strategic Investment.
Minister Nélio Isac confirmed that FIFA has expressed its intention to cooperate with the government in developing sports infrastructure and will provide financial support for the new stadium construction, with the government awaiting formal confirmation of this assistance.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino discussed Timor-Leste's urgent need for a proper stadium to host national team matches during meetings with FFTL leadership at the FIFA Executive Football Summit 2025, highlighting the country's infrastructure challenges.
The comprehensive stadium development project includes a USD 1.85 million investment in the FFTL Technical Centre, featuring one full-size artificial pitch, two mini-pitches, and floodlights with varying intensities to meet international standards for hosting competitive matches.
