Rajasthan United FC (RUFC) faces a setback in hosting I-League matches at Vidyadhar Nagar Stadium after Diwali firecrackers damaged 40% of the AstroTurf. Despite a previous deadline from the AIFF to complete stadium work by December 10, the club is now uncertain about meeting the requirements. The responsibility for the turf’s repair lies with RUFC, as confirmed by local officials.
For the upcoming I-League, which is all set to start from 22nd November 2024, there is a massive news story related to Jaipur’s Vidyadhar Nagar Stadium. Rajasthan United FC, who were hoping to host their home matches at the stadium, now face an unexpected challenge. The stadium’s AstroTurf, a crucial part of its FIFA-approved infrastructure, was severely damaged due to firecrackers bursting near the ground during Diwali celebrations.
This has raised doubts about the club’s ability to meet the stringent requirements set by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for hosting I-League matches. In a recent interview, RUFC chairman Krishan Kumar Tak said:
“We were about to start working on getting the necessary infrastructure ready and unexpectedly another issue has cropped up. Firecrackers burst on the Ram Leela maidan near the stadium, landed on the turf and ignited fire. About 40% of the ground is now damaged. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) team will be here this week and I fear they will reject the ground.”
The damage to the turf, which covers a significant portion of the field, is a major setback as RUFC was preparing to make necessary upgrades. The club’s management is working against time to repair the damage, but with the AIFF inspection scheduled soon, they remain uncertain about the outcome. The AIFF’s decision will be critical in determining whether the stadium will be available for the tournament.
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