“Zahir Pajaziti” to be upgraded in category and seating, covered and illuminated

The “Zahir Pajaziti” Stadium in Podujevë currently meets the criteria for Category Two, meaning Kosovo clubs can host qualifying matches for European competitions there.

But in six months, the stadium in Podujevë is expected to become a Category Three venue. Work begins on Thursday.

The Municipality of Podujevë announced this on Wednesday.

The municipality’s announcement states that on Thursday the “foundation stone will be laid for the construction of stands and the installation of lighting at the ‘Zahir Pajaziti’ Stadium”.

Llapi coach Tahir Batatina has provided more details. The project costs 2 million euros, and the work will involve building the east stand, fully covering the stands and installing floodlights in accordance with UEFA standards.

Batatina emphasized that the stadium will have 5,500 seats.

“According to the planned project, the work will be completed in six months. An east stand will also be built, and the stadium will be fully covered and equipped with floodlights as well. Llapi will no longer play matches at 1:00 p.m. We will play our matches in the evening, at 8:00 p.m. The stadium is Category Two, but once all the work is completed, it will be Category Three, where we will be able to host Champions League and Europa League matches,” Batatina told KOHA on Wednesday.

Years ago, investments were made in the existing stands at the stadium where Llapi plays its home matches, and the pitch was also improved.

Several matches in lower-tier European competitions have been played at “Zahir Pajaziti”. The U21 national team has also played there. But the senior national football team can play only in a Category Four stadium.

It was previously announced that 11 million euros would be invested in the construction of a new stadium in Suharekë, while work is also underway at the city stadium in Gjilan. Work is also being carried out at the “Adem Jashari” Stadium in Mitrovicë and at many other sports facilities.