Rizal Memorial Football Stadium gets FIFA-ready makeover

The historic Rizal Memorial Track and Football Stadium (RMS), long recognized as the home of the Philippine National Football Team, is nearing the completion of a major renovation aimed at aligning the venue with top international standards.

This transformation is part of a broader infrastructure modernization program spearheaded by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) under Chairman Richard “Dickie” Bachmann. “One down, more to go,” Bachmann told a small group of media representatives, reaffirming his commitment to revitalizing the country’s oldest sports complex during his tenure.

The renovation, led by E-Sports International—renowned experts in sports architecture and the same firm behind RMS’s 2014 revamp—includes the installation of a new 105 x 68-meter artificial turf system manufactured by German brand Limonta. Known for its quality and performance, this cutting-edge surface is currently undergoing rigorous evaluation by Acousto-Scan Pty Ltd, a FIFA-accredited laboratory.

The testing is a critical step to ensure the turf meets the stringent criteria of the FIFA Quality Program for Football Turf, a prerequisite for hosting elite international matches.

“We chose the highest-grade turf available to ensure top performance and safety,” said Audris Romualdez, Managing Director of E-Sports International. “This new surface is softer, more durable, and designed to resist long-term issues like hardening and bulging.”

RMS has been a storied venue in Philippine football history. It was the site of the Azkals’ dramatic 2-1 win over Tajikistan in 2018, which secured their spot in the AFC Asian Cup, and the Filipinas’ emphatic 3-0 victory over Thailand in the 2022 ASEAN Women’s Championship final.

Notably, in 2015, the stadium became the first in the country to earn FIFA’s prestigious 2-Star Certification, paving the way for it to host international events such as the men’s football tournament during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

Acousto-Scan International Director Anthony Apparailly emphasized the safety advantages of the new turf: “It’s not just about playability—it’s about protection. The surface significantly reduces injury risks, from minor abrasions to serious falls, thanks to its shock-absorbent properties.”

Upon passing FIFA certification, the upgraded pitch will be cleared for both domestic and international competitions, reaffirming its status as a premier venue and training ground for Philippine national teams.

Bachmann underscored the broader impact of the project: “Rizal Memorial Stadium is a cornerstone of Philippine sports. This renovation ensures we can continue to host global events, nurture grassroots talent, and offer our athletes a world-class facility.”

Located within the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex—an official historical landmark—the stadium’s legacy continues to evolve, serving as a bridge between the nation’s proud sporting heritage and its bright future on the international stage.

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