Infantino Opens New FIFA Arena in St. Peter’s

BASSETERRE — Young footballers in St. Kitts and Nevis now have a new space to develop their skills following the official opening of a FIFA Arena at the National Bank Group SKNFA Technical Center in St. Peter’s on Saturday, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in attendance.

Infantino joined officials of the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association (SKNFA), government representatives, football stakeholders and young players for the ceremony. Officials said the arena is intended to be more than another pitch, offering a safe, dedicated space for young people to play, build their skills and connect more strongly with the sport.

Speaking at the opening, Infantino described the facility as an important step in the country’s football development, but stressed that it is one part of a broader vision. He said FIFA’s ambition is to make football available to everyone, everywhere, and that the commitment must be backed by action and investment.

He pointed to the football talent already in St. Kitts and Nevis, saying the country needs the infrastructure and expertise to nurture it and give young players the chance to develop. Infantino also described the arena as a safe space where children and adults can play, and where football can help bring the community together.

He highlighted the progress of the country’s young players, including the Under-15 boys, who, according to the SKNFA, are set to take part in the inaugural FIFA Under-15 World Cup in Azerbaijan. Infantino said FIFA will continue working with the SKNFA and other stakeholders to invest in and develop the game.

SKNFA President Atiba Harris stressed the importance of collaboration between the association, government and other stakeholders. He said developing more mini-pitches could provide safe spaces for children to play and give parents greater confidence in the environments where their children take part in football. Harris also called on sports officials from both St. Kitts and Nevis to work together to advance football development across the Federation.

Harris said the country has never lacked football talent but has historically needed more infrastructure to give that talent room to develop. He said the focus must remain on children, adding that football is not only about playing the game but also about the life lessons it can provide.

SKNFA Technical Director Giba Damiano also described the opening as a significant moment for football development in the country. He said the facility is about creating opportunities and giving young people a place to begin pursuing their dreams, regardless of their background or ability.

Damiano said the responsibility now is to ensure the pitch is fully utilized, with plans including grassroots football, school partnerships and coach education.

The SKNFA says the FIFA Arena is expected to serve as a hub for grassroots football, youth development and community engagement as the association continues efforts to expand football opportunities across St. Kitts and Nevis.