Panama's Sports Director Outlines Facility Overhaul, Public-Private Partnerships

Panama's sports facilities are set for a significant overhaul, with Director General of the National Institute of Sports (Pandeportes) Miguel Ordóñez outlining a roadmap to tackle widespread deterioration.

A major focus is the renovation of the Maracaná Stadium, a project under the administration of President José Raúl Mulino, with an investment of approximately $15 million. This includes $5.7 million for the stadium itself and $9.2 million for a new sports complex in Chorrillo. The Maracaná will feature natural grass, catering to footballers' demands, and is expected to host 65 to 70 matches annually. Its spectator capacity will increase to 5,350, with adaptations to meet FIFA and CONCACAF requirements for national team matches.

The accompanying sports complex will include a FIFA-standard synthetic pitch for league matches and a gymnasium capable of seating 3,000 people. With over 26% of the work completed, the project is slated for delivery between late this year and early next. Ordóñez emphasized the Maracaná's practical importance, stating, "The Rommel Fernández is the jewel in the crown, but from a practical use standpoint, the Maracaná is the most important stadium in the country."

To address the historical neglect of stadiums, Pandeportes is collaborating with the Secretariat of Public-Private Partnerships (APP) and KPMG to implement concession models. This approach aims to have specialized companies manage stadiums and commercialize naming rights, ensuring continuous maintenance and usage for grassroots sports development without state cost. Ordóñez also highlighted shortcomings in the current sports tax incentive law, such as a lack of budgetary viability and the exclusion of the Comptroller General's Office.

Regarding the Agustín "Muquita" Sánchez Stadium in La Chorrera, Ordóñez confirmed its imminent closure due to its dilapidated state. He cited a lack of commitment from local clubs to improve changing rooms, despite Pandeportes and the football federation fulfilling their infrastructure and sanitary obligations. A two-phase intervention plan is in the works, beginning with temporary closure for essential repairs.

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The Rommel Fernández is the jewel in the crown, but from a practical use standpoint, the Maracaná is the most important stadium in the country.