The Cuban government has announced the refurbishment of the historic La Polar soccer stadium in Havana, backed by a multimillion-dollar investment. The restoration project, which was initially greenlit nearly 12 years ago by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), is set to be completed by February.
"We now have $1.7 million worth of materials in the country for La Polar; we have the stands, locker rooms, irrigation system, and lighting, allowing us to host both national and international matches," said José Yulier Herranz from the Cuban Football Association (AFC) in an interview with Cubavisión Internacional.
Located in Puentes Grandes, La Polar will be fully operational by March. Established in 1929, it remains one of Cuba's oldest active sports venues. "We have acquired the entire socio-administrative infrastructure for La Polar, and in collaboration with the Havana government, we are currently constructing the bases for these structures," noted Oliet Rodríguez, president of the AFC.
According to Rodríguez, the aim is to host the qualifying match for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup in March, where the Cuban national team will compete in home-and-away matches against Trinidad and Tobago.
The upgrades are made possible by funds provided by FIFA to develop soccer in Cuba. However, it has been alleged that the regime often reallocates, squanders, or outright embezzles these resources. From 2016 to 2022, FIFA donated $8 million to the Cuban Football Federation, out of $11.4 million that had been approved.
Many Cubans have expressed skepticism about how these funds are utilized, especially after players reported limitations, including a shortage of uniforms, and the sport continues to languish in historical stagnation. Writer Ariel Maceo shared photos of La Polar, which has received FIFA funding multiple times. He criticized, "They finally laid down the grass, but the stands were never installed. That's a local league match, which the regime has currently suspended," he emphasized.
He further stated that the Cuban regime "has repeatedly siphoned off FIFA funds and, even worse, mocks the organization."
The Future of Soccer in Cuba: Key Questions Answered
What is the significance of La Polar stadium in Cuba?
La Polar, founded in 1929, is one of the oldest active sports venues in Cuba and plays a crucial role in the development of soccer in the country.
How is FIFA involved in the renovation of La Polar?
FIFA has provided significant funds to support the renovation of La Polar as part of its efforts to promote soccer development in Cuba.
What challenges does Cuban soccer face despite FIFA funding?
Cuban soccer faces challenges such as misallocation or mismanagement of funds, leading to resource shortages and stagnation in the sport's development.