The recent completion of floodlight installations at Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s preparations for hosting international football matches.
These floodlights are not just any ordinary lights; they have been meticulously designed and installed to meet the rigorous standards set by FIFA for international match venues.
In the lead-up to the crucial World Cup qualifiers match between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on June 6, the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has been actively updating and engaging with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
The PFF has formally communicated the completion of the floodlight installations to the AFC through an official letter. However, recognizing the importance of transparency and accountability, the AFC has requested the PFF to provide verification documents to substantiate their claims regarding the floodlights’ compliance with FIFA standards.
To fulfill this request, the PFF has liaised with the Pakistan Sports Board, seeking the necessary verification and documentation.
This proactive approach demonstrates the PFF’s commitment to ensuring that the Jinnah Stadium meets and exceeds all international standards, providing a world-class experience for players and fans alike.
The specifications of the floodlights installed at Jinnah Stadium are noteworthy. The stadium now boasts approximately 225 floodlights, each designed to emit a brightness of 1800 lumens.
This meets FIFA’s stringent criteria for lighting, ensuring optimal visibility and quality of play during matches. This compliance was confirmed and validated during an official inspection carried out by a delegation from the AFC on April 6.
Despite these recent advancements, the journey to upgrade and prepare the stadium has not been without its challenges. Previous matches held at the Jinnah Stadium, such as the one between Cambodia and Pakistan, caused delays in the installation process.
The PFF had to seek multiple deadline extensions from FIFA to finalize the venue for another crucial match against Jordan.
Earlier disagreements and tensions between the Pakistan Sports Board and the leadership of the PFF in January 2024 added another layer of complexity to the preparations.
However, despite these challenges and setbacks, the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved have ensured that the stadium is now ready to host high-profile international matches.
Looking forward, additional enhancements are in the pipeline for Jinnah Stadium. Plans are underway to install around 300 VIP seats, improving the overall seating arrangements and spectator experience.
This ongoing investment and commitment to infrastructure development signify Pakistan’s dedication to elevating the standard of football in the country.
The successful completion of floodlight installations at Jinnah Stadium and the continued efforts to upgrade the venue underscore Pakistan’s determination to play a more prominent role in international football.
With upcoming matches, including fixtures in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers, Pakistan is poised to showcase its potential and passion for football on the global stage.
