Centenary Stadium
Nestled in the heart of Ta' Qali, Malta, The Centenary Stadium, known in Maltese as "il-Grawnd taċ-Ċentinarju," stands as a symbol of the island's deep-rooted passion for football. Classified as a UEFA Category 2 stadium, this edifice lies a stone's throw away from the National Stadium and embodies the spirit of Maltese football evolution and dedication to nurturing young talent.
History
The genesis of the Centenary Stadium dates back to 1985 when the Malta Football Association first envisioned a modern arena to uplift the footballing standards in the region. This dream started to materialize on 11 October 1998, with the laying of its first stone by then-President of Malta, Dr. Ugo Mifsud Bonnici. Within a short span, the stadium was inaugurated on 13 August 1999 by Dr. Eddie Fenech Adami, the Prime Minister of Malta, and Dr. Joe Mifsud, the President of the Malta Football Association. As a homage to the Malta Football Association's 100th anniversary, it was aptly named the "Centenary Stadium."
Facilities
The Centenary Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 3,000, complete with a designated VIP and press area. As the home to the Malta Women's National team and various youth teams, the stadium also plays host to matches from the BOV Premier League, IZIBET FA Trophy, and other esteemed competitions. Additionally, it proudly houses the headquarters of the Malta Youth Football Association.
Milestones
1999: The Centenary Stadium replaced the renowned Pace Grasso Stadium in Tarxien, which was famous for its gravel surface. The stadium bore witness to its first competitive match between Birżebbuġa St. Peter's and Ghaxaq on 4 September. The historic first goal was netted by Ghaxaq's Sandro Lapira, leading his team to a triumphant 2-1 win.
2007: After serving for nearly a decade, the original pitch from 1999 was substituted by a new FIFA Two-Star artificial turf, marking a significant upgrade for the stadium.
2017: Embracing advancements, the Malta Football Association replaced the pitch with a state-of-the-art FIFA-quality pro surface. Alongside, new dug-outs were also incorporated. This renovation, approximated at a cost of €400,000, enhances the stadium's capability to host premium FIFA and UEFA matches.
2019: Acknowledging the advancements in modern technology and infrastructure demands, the Malta FA embarked on a mission to revamp the existing conference hall. Initially constructed in 2000, the hall was once at the forefront of modern design. However, with changing times and technological requirements, a significant refurbishment was initiated. The new hall, accommodating up to 90 individuals in a theatre-style setting, boasts a flexible layout suitable for a various events. It integrates modern amenities such as an interpreter booth, control room, food prep zone, dedicated restrooms, HVAC system, and top-tier audio-visual technology.
