Liberia’s football sector is set for a significant transformation through a fully-funded FIFA project under the FIFA Forward Program, delivering both infrastructure upgrades and grassroots opportunities.
A $750,000 investment is currently being directed toward Gompa Stadium, where construction teams are installing FIFA-standard artificial turf, a modern drainage and irrigation system, high-powered floodlights, and improved stands. Once completed, the venue will provide an all-weather facility suitable for Liberia’s men’s, women’s, and youth national teams. It will also serve school leagues, grassroots festivals, and year-round community football programs.
Beyond sports development, the project is expected to create jobs during construction and stimulate the local economy through increased tournaments, matches, and visitors. Officials believe the upgraded facility could position Liberia as a viable host for regional and international football events.
The initiative forms part of FIFA Forward, launched in 2016 under FIFA President Gianni Infantino to ensure equitable redistribution of FIFA revenues across its 211 member associations. By 2026, FIFA projects a record $5 billion in global football development spending.
In a related effort, FIFA has also inaugurated two FIFA Arena mini-pitches at schools in Margibi and Montserrado counties, expected to directly benefit more than 3,000 children.
“I’m thrilled to see the youth of Liberia inaugurate these FIFA Arena mini-pitches today. These brand-new, sustainable spaces offer children from Margibi and Montserrado counties a safe and inspiring environment to play and grow through football,” said Gelson Fernandes, FIFA Deputy Chief Member Associations Officer and Regional Director for Africa.
He highlighted Liberia’s historic place in global football through the legacy of George Weah, the country’s Ballon d’Or winner, and expressed confidence that new generations of Liberian players could follow in his footsteps.
The FIFA Arena project aims to deliver at least 1,000 mini-pitches worldwide by 2031, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by expanding safe sporting spaces for children in disadvantaged areas. Georgia was the first country to implement the initiative, followed by Algeria, and Liberia has now become the second African nation to benefit.
The launch ceremony in Liberia drew high-profile attendance, including FIFA’s Gelson Fernandes, Youth and Sports Minister Jeror Cole Bangalu, National Defense Minister (Rtd.) Geraldine Janet George, and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Davidson Fayiah Forleh.
With the Gompa Stadium revamp and the rollout of FIFA Arena pitches, Liberia is entering a new phase of football development aimed at empowering players at every level and building stronger pathways for the sport’s future.