Uzbekistan breaks ground on $100M stadium in New Tashkent

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev inaugurated construction of a new football stadium in New Tashkent on 11 November, marking a significant step in Uzbekistan’s ongoing sports infrastructure expansion. The facility will have a capacity of 55,000 seats, surpassing the country’s current largest stadiums, Pakhtakor and Bunyodkor, which hold 35,000 and 34,000 spectators respectively.

The project, valued at $100 million, is designed to meet all FIFA standards and will integrate green energy, smart management systems, and urban-friendly design. It aims to position New Tashkent as a hub of innovation while supporting the national football programme.

Uzbekistan has seen rapid growth in football infrastructure over the past decade. From just three FIFA-standard fields in 2017, the country now boasts over ten, alongside 75 large and 302 mini stadiums nationwide. The national team is also increasingly competitive, with 20 Uzbek players currently at foreign clubs. Defender Abduqodir Husanov of Manchester City holds the record as the most expensive Asian footballer, with the combined transfer value of these players exceeding $60 million.

The stadium forms part of Uzbekistan’s preparation for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup, which the FIFA Council approved for hosting in both Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. Matches will be staged across three stadiums in each country, with finals and semi-finals requiring venues exceeding 50,000 seats. A dedicated state programme will oversee supporting infrastructure, including transport, hotels, healthcare, and volunteer initiatives.

President Mirziyoyev emphasised the symbolic importance of the stadium, stating it will inspire young athletes, serve as a source of national pride, and represent a milestone in the country’s sporting ambitions. The construction launch included a ceremonial foundation capsule, marking the official start of the build.

Read the full story to explore how Uzbekistan is transforming its football landscape and preparing for the 2027 U-20 World Cup.