On Friday, the final phase of the International Competition for Architectural Projects for the upgrade of the “Selman Stërmasi” Stadium in Tirana was held.

According to a government announcement, five companies presented their architectural concepts for the stadium to the jury during a special event.

In his speech at the event, Prime Minister Edi Rama emphasized that this is yet another competition organized by the Albanian Investment Corporation (AIC) for a development of significant importance to the capital on multiple levels.

Rama noted that this project follows similar initiatives for three other stadiums in Durrës, Vlora, and Korça, which are currently in the development phase.

“I am very pleased that, following the three new stadiums currently underway - after the selection of the winning proposals, the implementation projects have been prepared, and AIC has launched the competition for developers - this stadium is next in line. These are not just stadiums, but new urban centers in Durrës, Vlora, and Korça,” Rama added.

The Prime Minister expressed his belief that the “Selman Stërmasi” Stadium would also become a core element of a new urban hub in the capital.

Also in attendance, the Director of the Albanian Investment Corporation, Elira Kokona, stated: “By advancing the project for the revitalization of the ‘Selman Stërmasi’ stadium, we aim to meet contemporary standards comparable to those of international stadiums.”

She continued that the government’s goal is to present an ambitious project for a multifunctional center where sports, culture, and social activities are seamlessly integrated.

Kokona emphasized that “the stadium’s revitalization will not only create a modern venue for sports but will also provide open public spaces, integrated within a vibrant urban dynamic that promotes economic and social development.”

She highlighted that the new stadium will follow an approach that fosters coexistence between sports, social, and cultural activities - creating a new urban node for the city. Life in this space will unfold throughout the day and at all hours, serving the community, citizens, and of course, the many tourists and visitors to the capital.

Furthermore, she added that, thanks to cooperation with the Municipality of Tirana, the Olympic Committee, and the National Territorial Planning Agency - and following the receipt of the relevant permits - the AIC is ready to launch a competition for the architecture and developer of the ‘Asllan Rusi’ Sports Palace in Tirana. This initiative will provide an opportunity for urban development and the advancement of Olympic sports excellence.

Kokona also announced that “the ‘Dyrrah’ sports center for tennis, modeled after world champions, and the basketball center designed according to the NBA academy framework, will soon launch a competition for the selection of a development partner. These sports education programs will join the ‘Manchester City’ Football Academy in Durrës.”