DILI, 19 October 2026 (TATOLI) — Construction of the new international-standard football stadium with a capacity of 20,000 spectators in Tasi-Tolu, Dili, is expected to begin in 2027, subject to progress on land arrangements and other preparations, the President of the Football Federation of Timor-Leste (FFTL), Nilton Telmo Gusmão has said.
The proposed stadium in Tasi-Tolu is designed as a modern, international-standard facility to promote sports development, support player development and host future regional and international tournaments.
Gusmão said preparations for the project were under way, with funding expected from FIFA and additional financial support from the Timor-Leste Government.
He said a feasibility study had been completed, providing a basis for the proposed development. However, the construction timeline will largely depend on progress in securing the land for the stadium in Tasi-Tolu.
Negotiations over the proposed site were progressing well, Gusmão said, but securing the land remained a key condition for the project to move forward.
“We all pray that the stadium can be built next year,” he said.
Gusmão thanked residents living in the proposed development area in Tasi-Tolu for their willingness to vacate the site to make way for the project.
The planned stadium is expected to include facilities that improve accessibility for people with disabilities, enabling them to attend football matches and use the venue more easily.
Gusmão said the FFTL was also open to recommendations from stakeholders and football lovers in Timor-Leste, on the stadium’s design and facilities.
Once completed, the stadium would strengthen Timor-Leste’s football infrastructure and provide a venue designed to host matches meeting international standards. However, construction will depend on the completion of the necessary preparations, including arrangements for the proposed site.
The initiative aims not only to develop football in Timor-Leste but also to serve as a symbol of national pride, boost tourism, create jobs and generate wider socio-economic benefits, while strengthening the role of sport in bringing people together.
Last year, the Timor-Leste Government, through the Council of Ministers, approved a proposal by the Timor-Leste Football Federation (FFTL) to build the new stadium with an international-standard indoor futsal court in Tasi-Tolu, Dili.
The proposal was approved following a presentation by FFTL president Nilton T. Gusmão dos Santos, Secretary-General José Adilson Ribeiro and their team at a Council of Ministers meeting chaired by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão on June 4, 2025.
Journalist: Hortêncio Sanchez
Editor: Cancio Ximenes
Translation: Filomeno Martins