Banjul, 28th May 2026: Ministry of Youth & Sports wishes to clarify recent public statements regarding the proposed return of the Senior Men’s National Team, the Scorpions, to the Independence Stadium for international matches in June 2026. The Ministry wishes to state that the Independence Stadium rehabilitation and remodeling project is still ongoing and has not yet reached the stage for final inspection and approval for international matches by CAF. While significant progress has been registered on the project, particularly the football pitch and the main stadium infrastructure, additional works remain outstanding, including critical technical requirements relating to the new athletics track installation and associated finishing works. As such, no official confirmation or authorization was issued by the Ministry for any international match to be scheduled at the stadium in June 2026. The Ministry therefore finds it necessary to clarify that any earlier announcement by the Gambia Football Federation suggesting that the stadium would host international matches in June was made prematurely and without formal clearance from the competent authorities responsible for the facility The Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Transport Works and Infrastructure, Gambia-MOTWI and other partners, remains fully committed to the completion of the Independence Stadium project and to ensuring that the facility meets all required international standards before it is reopened for competitive matches and other sporting disciplines. The Ministry understands the disappointment of Gambian football fans who are eager to see the Scorpions return to playing on home soil and assures the public that every effort is being made to expedite the remaining works in close collaboration with the contractor, consultants, and relevant stakeholders. The Ministry further wishes the Scorpions success in their upcoming international friendly match against the Islamic Republic of Iran and reiterates its continued support to Gambian football and youth development.
