20 stadiums fail inspection

Twenty stadiums have failed to secure approval to host matches in the 2026 Central Region Soccer League (CRSL) after inspections revealed major shortcomings in safety, maintenance and operational standards.

Only seven venues were cleared to stage league fixtures following the inspections conducted ahead of the new season.

The approved grounds include Dulibadzimu Stadium, Minda High School Ground, Ronnies Sports Arena, MSU Main Campus Sports Pavilion, Ascot Stadium, Sabiwa Stadium and Bagdad Ground.

However, several well-known venues did not pass the inspection and will require urgent upgrades before they can be used for competitive matches.

Among the stadiums that failed the inspection are Mandava Stadium, Maglass Stadium, Phelandaba Stadium, Mkoba Stadium, Mbizo Stadium, Gwanda Prison Grounds and Chrome Stadium.

League authorities have directed clubs using the affected venues to urgently address the deficiencies identified during the inspections.

"A mandatory re-inspection will be conducted within seven days and any ground that fails to meet the required standards will not be permitted to host CRSL matches until all deficiencies have been corrected," the league said in a statement.

Clubs managing non-approved grounds have been warned to take immediate corrective measures to ensure their facilities comply with league standards before hosting matches.

The development could disrupt the start of the Central Region campaign as several clubs depend on the affected venues, forcing them either to upgrade their facilities quickly or secure alternative grounds for their home fixtures.

The CRSL board said the inspections were part of efforts to ensure clubs comply with league regulations and that stadiums provide safe environments for players, officials and supporters ahead of the 2026 season.