06-08-2025
Location plans for new Timor-Leste stadium sparks environmental concerns
Debate is raging in Timor-Leste over a controversial plan to build a multi-million dollar soccer stadium in the capital, Dili
Construction for the 15,000-capacity outdoor stadium and indoor futsal court, which will be part funded by FIFA, is due to begin later this year at an estimated cost of $30 million-dollars.
The site chosen for the new development is at the centre of concern, because not only is it a protected environmental zone, but it's also a sacred religious area.
"We're grateful for this beautiful stadium but … the government needs to look elsewhere for the location," said Tasi Tolu resident, Fernando Vicente de Jesus.
"During the northern winter up to an estimated nine million migratory shorebirds fly between these Palearctic breeding grounds and winter mostly in Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. Most birds fly over Timor-Leste, but for some of these migratory shorebirds Timor-Leste - and Lake Tasi Tolu – provides vital feeding and roosting habitat," said Potenzo Lopes, a Naturalist and Wildlife Conservationist.
Fernando Batista Xavier, the Deputy of General Secretary of Timor-Leste Football Federation says the Football Federation is still waiting for the land allocation from the Ministry of Justice before the build commences.
""Since we gained independence, we have not had a stadium to international standards," said Mr Xavier.
"The stadium there will not destroy important values that already exist. FFTL is ready to sit together listen to the ideas, to make this place more beautiful, to respect the image and dignity of the site," he added.
