THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF), in partnership with Blue Water Shipping have begun the initial steps to create an innovative new muti-purpose sports, educational and entertainment venue.

According to a release from GFF, the project will focus on expanding the ways the stadium serves the Guyana National team as well as the wider community. It said the goal is for the venue to be accessible to people from all backgrounds and will be integrated with Guyana’s art and cultural life.

The release pointed out that Blue Water Shipping has consistently partnered with football in Guyana and put its full support behind the design and construction process. Based on the agreement between the two entities, Blue Water Shipping will hold the exclusive naming rights for the facility for an initial period of five years.

The key features of the design include: exterior terraces and stands with panoramic views of Georgetown that will serve as critical space during event days; open design; good sight lines for all spectators through diverse viewing experiences and high-tech and sustainable materials throughout the building.

Other features of the stadium complex include a dedicated community space which could be utilized year-round for educational opportunities, youth sport, non-profit events and other community-minded purposes.

Discussions on the possible partnership, the GFF said, began in September 2022 when President Wayne Forde visited Blue Water Shipping during its 50 years Jubilee celebrations in Denmark.
According to Blue Water Chief Operating Officer, Thomas Bek, “at Blue Water Shipping, we are committed to be part of the communities where we operate. It is with great honour and respect we enter into this partnership with the GFF as part of the new stadium in Georgetown. We are looking forward to great football matches and events that can bring pleasure and excitement to everyone in Guyana. Football, sport and culture are deeply rooted in our company values and we are privileged to be able to strengthen our cooperation with the GFF – beyond our sponsorship for the Under-15 Girls League.”

The GFF President disclosed that “the Blue Water Shipping Stadium will be an imposing landmark in the city of Georgetown and a standard bearer for architectural excellence in this new era of football infrastructure. This groundbreaking partnership is an unequivocal example of the huge strategic role corporate Guyana can play in the transformation of the sporting landscape across Guyana.

I am truly humbled and grateful for the opportunity to work so closely on this project for the past year with our friends at Blue Water Shipping. This facility, when completed, will not only inspire thousands of boys and girls in the coming years, it will also transform the Wortmanville community.

“I would also like to thank the Government of Guyana for leasing the 7.3 acres of land on which the stadium will be built by the GFF.”