Footballers Call For Suspension Of Rufaro Stadium Over Dangerous Pitch

Local footballers have said Rufaro Stadium should be suspended from hosting Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) matches, citing serious injury risks due to the deteriorating playing surface.

The Footballers Union of Zimbabwe (FUZ) wrote to authorities expressing concern over the dangers posed to players on Rufaro’s pitch.

Home to four PSL clubs, Dynamos, CAPS United, Herentals, and Scottland, the stadium’s surface has reportedly worsened in recent months as a result of overuse.

ZIFA First Instance Board chairman Sharif Mussa told H-Metro on Monday that the association has not yet reviewed the stadium’s fitness to host top-flight league matches. Said Mussa:

“On banning the stadium, I can’t say anything but we have been in talks as ZIFA and the PSL.

“But we are looking for an amicable position that will be good for the game of football and benefits everyone.

“There have been no further decisions made yet but there is fear that big damages might come out on that ground if things don’t change for the better.”

The Harare City Council, owners of Rufaro Stadium, have insisted that the venue remains fit to host PSL matches, dismissing claims of a crisis.

Council spokesperson Stanley Gama said an upcoming international break will allow the pitch ample time to recover and reach optimal condition.

He added that both the PSL and the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) are satisfied with the current state of the Rufaro Stadium playing surface.

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