New 33,000-Seat National Football Stadium in Minsk to Open on June 7, 2025

A modern sports arena with a capacity of 33,000 spectators will become the new home for Belarusian football

Long-awaited opening

Deputy Minister of Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Baraulia officially confirmed the opening date of the National Football Stadium in Minsk – the grand event will take place on June 7, 2025. This information was announced in a recent BELTA interview, where the Ministry of Sports representative spoke about the prospects for developing the country’s sports infrastructure. "The opening of this magnificent arena is scheduled for June 7. The National Football Stadium, built with the help of our Chinese friends, will accommodate 33,000 spectators, meets all international standards, and is ready to host top-level matches," noted Alexander Baraulia.

Construction history

Construction of the National Football Stadium on Vaneyeva Street began in the summer of 2020. The project became a significant gift to the Belarusian people from the People’s Republic of China. Together with the swimming pool on Kalvariyskaya Street, both facilities cost the Chinese authorities 285 million dollars. Over five years of construction, the modern sports arena has risen from nothing and is now ready to host international-level competitions. The stadium meets all FIFA and UEFA requirements for holding top-tier matches.

Prospects for hosting international matches

On the opening day of the National Football Stadium, a friendly match between the Belarusian and Chinese youth national teams is planned, symbolizing the beginning of the new arena’s sporting history. However, as the Deputy Minister noted, there are currently certain restrictions on holding official international matches in Belarus, which are regulated by decisions of FIFA and UEFA. "Unfortunately, there are still restrictions on hosting official international matches in Belarus. These matters are decided by FIFA and UEFA, but we very much hope that common sense will prevail and that soon our fans will finally see international clashes," emphasized Alexander Baraulia.

Development of sports infrastructure in Belarus

The opening of the National Football Stadium is part of a large-scale program to develop sports infrastructure in the country. According to the Ministry of Sports and Tourism, more than 23,000 different sports facilities are currently operating in Belarus, including 56 sports arenas, over 4,500 gyms, 330 hockey rinks, 407 outdoor tennis courts, 542 shooting ranges, 383 swimming pools, and 151 stadiums. "Sports infrastructure is constantly evolving – new facilities are being commissioned in every region," Baraulia noted in his interview.

Promoting sports among the population

The Ministry of Sports and Tourism of Belarus is actively working to engage citizens in physical culture and sports. Currently, more than 30% of the country’s residents regularly participate in sports. Numerous mass sporting events are held annually in the republic, including the Minsk Half Marathon, the “Yazyl Ten,” triathlon competitions, and various children’s tournaments. The opening of a modern football stadium in the capital will undoubtedly provide an additional incentive to promote a healthy lifestyle and sports among Belarusians of all ages.

Conclusion

The National Football Stadium in Minsk is not just a new sports arena but a symbol of the development of Belarusian sports and the strengthening of international relations. Thanks to the support of the PRC, Belarus has received a modern sports facility that could become a venue for major international competitions and contribute to the further development of football in the country.