The new FIFA Two-Star artificial turf at the Centenary Stadium, Ta’ Qali, was officially inaugurated yesterday evening.

This is another project by the Malta Football Association aimed at raising the infrastructural standards of its sports facilities in our country.

The MFA had felt it necessary to replace the old artificial surface laid in 1999 with a new one of topmost quality. The German firm Polytan won the contract and work on the laying of the new surface started at the 2006-2007 close season under the supervision of qualified personnel.

The FIFA-approved artificial turf is regarded as the best available in the world and recognised by UEFA as suitable to host international matches. It is equipped with an irrigation system which enables it to withstand the hot climatic conditions in Malta, whilst neutralising the dusty environment of the surrounding area at Ta’ Qali.

The turf, which is guaranteed for five years, will have to undergo annual FIFA-approved tests for the duration of this term. It was recently announced that the expenses for these tests, totalling about Lm 35,000, will be funded by UEFA.

The new turf at the Centenary Stadium will host the BOV Second and Third Division League matches, the Quick-Keno Knock-Out competition for the same categories, a number of BOV First Division League matches and several Youth League matches, besides, possibly, other top matches, including internationals.