KRG Approves Comprehensive Renovation of Erbil’s Franso Hariri International Stadium
In a move hailed by sports enthusiasts across Erbil, the Kurdistan Regional Government has officially greenlit a full-scale renovation of the iconic Franso Hariri Stadium, with works scheduled to commence following the conclusion of Iraq's Star League season.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has formally announced plans to renovate the Franso Hariri International Stadium, marking a significant investment in the region’s sports infrastructure. The project is set to begin in early June, following the conclusion of the Iraq Stars League, according to Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw.
Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw made the announcement on Sunday, through an official press statement, describing the initiative as a “positive step forward” for Erbil’s sporting community. He confirmed that the renovation will transform the stadium into a modern facility, aligning it with international standards.
The renovation was ordered by Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, who allocated nearly two billion Iraqi dinars for the project. According to the statement, the stadium's field will be replaced with high-quality hybrid turf, the same type used in major international stadiums, while the surrounding tracks and spectator areas will be modernized with contemporary designs.
“Preparations are complete,” Khoshnaw stated. “Coordination with the executing company and supervising engineers has been finalized. The project is ready to launch as soon as the current football season ends.”
The Franso Hariri Stadium, home to Erbil SC, traces its origins back to 1956. It underwent its first major renovation in 1992 and was renamed in honor of the late Franso Hariri in 2001. With a capacity exceeding 25,000 spectators, it remains one of the largest and most historic stadiums in the Kurdistan Region.
The upcoming renovation aims not only to preserve that legacy but also to elevate the stadium to meet the evolving needs of Kurdish and Iraqi athletes and fans alike.
