On Sunday, September 1st, during the program “La Notificación,” the topic “World-Class Sports Infrastructure in Nicaragua” was discussed, highlighting the significant advancements and investments the Government of Reconciliation and National Unity has made in sports infrastructure across the country.
The discussion emphasized the construction of three stadiums that meet international standards for baseball in Nicaragua. Among these is the soon-to-be-inaugurated stadium in the university city of León, which will be named after the National Hero “Rigoberto López Pérez.” This highlights the unprecedented transformation that sports in Nicaragua have undergone.
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Before 2006, the annual investment in sports infrastructure at the national level was less than one million dollars. However, between 2007 and 2011, a significant evolution process began, raising the investment to 7 million dollars annually. Currently, according to government figures, this investment has increased, reaching an average of 22 million dollars per year.
The captain of the León Lions, Marvin Martínez, stated, “I think it was well deserved, both for us, the team, and the fans, to have a great sports monument like the stadium currently being built here.”
Nicaragua in Constant Development
Currently, the stadium is 90% complete, generating great excitement among the population, eagerly awaiting a historic event in their city. This project, which promises to be a symbol of local pride, has captured the attention of citizens, who are preparing to enjoy a modern and iconic space that will host significant sporting events.
The mayor of León also commented, “Today we can tell Rigoberto that we are fulfilling that dream of having a free Nicaragua, a dignified Nicaragua, a sovereign Nicaragua, a Nicaragua in peace.” Furthermore, Nicaragua goes beyond investment in infrastructure. In 2023 alone, over 58.67 units of sports equipment were delivered, and the number of sports academies increased from 30 in 2007 to 80 today.
There are a total of 26 sports centers nationwide. Additionally, the “Sports Infrastructure Development Program” is currently underway. This program spans four years and is divided into several stages. The project has an investment of 4 billion córdobas, which will once again position Nicaragua as the sports capital of Central America.
The Sports Infrastructure Development Program aims to construct 15 baseball stadiums, 13 football stadiums, 13 multipurpose sports centers, and 4 recreational centers.
Achievements Made in the Country
Sports commentator Levi Luna highlighted the achievements made in the country: “We are in the golden age of sports infrastructure. There is a before and after in 2017 when we began to have top-level sports facilities, such as the Alexis Argüello Sports Complex, the National Sovereignty Stadium, and the Michelle Richardson swimming pools; once again confirming what we were capable of doing, having, and projecting into the future.”
He also noted, “In the Central American Games, we demonstrated that we are the sports capital of Central America, not only because of the facilities but also because of the teams that attended to the different delegations. Subsequently, with other international events, we proved that Nicaragua is a country that knows how to host sports events with high demands.”
Moreover, it is important for any government to prioritize sports, as it is fundamental to the comprehensive development of society. A country cannot achieve true progress without the active support and commitment of the government.
Levi Luna commented, “The Nicaraguan government has several priorities, but one of those priorities is sports, not only in terms of facilities but also in the support that sports disciplines now receive. Not just baseball, not just boxing, not just football, but also other disciplines that previously received neither attention nor budget.”
Nicaragua made a mark with its first participation in the World Baseball Classic and continued to shine by hosting other international events. Additionally, with the ongoing projects, the country will contribute to its development and demonstrate to athletes the nation’s commitment.
