KWEKWE — The official commissioning of the 15,000-seater Chahwanda Stadium — The Heart Main Arena — which was initially scheduled for February 28 by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been postponed to a later date, Hard Rock FC has announced.
The stadium was built by businessman Shepherd Magodora Chahwanda with the help of Yadah FC owner and cleric Prophet Walter Magaya.
Hard Rock FC will use Chahwanda Stadium for its Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matches, beginning with their debut against defending champions Scottland FC on March 6 in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The team is now under the guidance of Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu.
In a statement, the club said the official opening of Chahwanda Stadium had been delayed, but assured fans the venue will be ready for the match against Scottland FC.
“Hard Rock Football Club advises all stakeholders that the commissioning of Chahwanda Stadium has been delayed. Meanwhile, we reassure our supporters that preparations are firmly on track to ensure the stadium is ready to host our highly anticipated inaugural Premier Soccer League match against Scottland FC,” said the Kwekwe-based club.
The club added that an official date for the commissioning of the state-of-the-art facility will be announced once all arrangements are finalised.
“Its opening will mark a significant milestone, not only for Hard Rock FC but for the entire national football community. We remain committed to delivering a world-class facility that reflects the pride and spirit of Zimbabwean football,” read part of the statement.
“Chahwanda Stadium is more than just a venue, it is a home for every Zimbabwean, built to celebrate our shared passion for football and community.”
Last Saturday, the stadium underwent its first CAF inspection. Stadium Inspector Aloys Mpambara of Rwanda expressed his satisfaction with the venue and its facilities.
In addition to hosting local matches, the new facility is eligible to host CAF Category B games. It will be the first stadium in Zimbabwe with a double-decker dugout and the first to feature LED perimeter advertising boards.
Chahwanda Stadium boasts several distinctive features, including 24 en-suite rooms to accommodate a full team. The stadium also has 52 entrances to ensure a stampede-free atmosphere, and houses 12 retail shops within the facility.
Modern amenities at the stadium include a presidential suite, a state-of-the-art clinic for emergencies, and offices for the Zimbabwe Football Association.
Key Features:
-Main stadium with a 15,000-seater capacity
-B Arena: Secondary arena for various sports and events
-ZIFA Provincial and Regional Offices: Offices for the Zimbabwe Football Association
-Clinic: Medical facility for players and staff
-Restaurant and Gym: Amenities for players, staff, and visitors
-Dressing Rooms: Modern facilities for teams and players
-Drainage System: State-of-the-art playing field with a modern drainage system
Commissioning of Chahwanda Stadium postponed
