Mekelle/Tel Aviv/Nairobi/Pretoria/London
FIFA Assessment Rates Adey Abeba Stadium Pitch as Excellent
Chekole Alemu
The natural playing surface installed at the main field of Adey Abeba International Stadium has been officially evaluated and certified under the FIFA Natural Playing Surfaces Quality Programme, according to a report issued by FIFA’s accredited testing institute, LABOSPORT.
The pitch was tested on December 22, 2025, using the procedures outlined in the FIFA Natural Playing Surfaces Test Manual. Documented under FIFA test report number 147592, the assessment awarded the field an overall score of 86 percent, placing it in FIFA’s “excellent” category, which indicates the surface meets top level standards with no limitations for play.
The certification was granted after the pitch successfully passed a series of technical and safety tests with high results. FIFA’s rating system classifies natural pitches based on performance and safety benchmarks, with scores above 85 percent considered excellent.
In addition to performance testing, the report included a broader risk assessment covering pitch profile and construction quality, line marking, grass species transition, seasonal changes, match load, infrastructure operation, staff capacity, and maintenance equipment. Most areas were rated as low or manageable risk, while maintenance equipment was identified as an area requiring further improvement.
City officials said the achievement reflects close oversight and follow up by Mayor Adanech Abiebie and her administration throughout the stadium’s construction and upgrading process. Since taking office, the mayor has repeatedly inspected the project, pushed for adherence to international standards, and emphasized timely completion of critical components, including the playing surface.
According to the Addis Ababa City Administration, the mayor has treated the stadium as a strategic national asset, requiring regular technical briefings and on site assessments to address delays and quality concerns. Her administration has also coordinated with contractors, consultants, and sports authorities to ensure compliance with FIFA requirements.
Reacting to the certification, Mayor Adanech Abiebie congratulated all stakeholders involved, noting that the FIFA recognition confirms the city’s commitment to delivering sports infrastructure that meets global standards and serves both athletes and the public.
Adey Abeba Stadium, also known as the Addis Ababa National Stadium, is one of Ethiopia’s largest sports infrastructure projects. Once completed, it is expected to be among the biggest stadiums on the African continent, with a projected seating capacity of around 60,000 spectators.
Construction of the stadium began in 2016. While the original opening timeline was set for 2027, funding and implementation challenges affected progress. Recent updates indicate that, under renewed administrative focus, completion may extend into 2026.
The FIFA certification of the main playing field is seen as a key milestone in the project, strengthening Ethiopia’s capacity to host major international football events once the stadium becomes fully operational.
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