GFF announces $150m youth investment plan and major calendar overhaul

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has unveiled a transformative plan for the sport following its Ordinary Congress on Saturday, headlined by a landmark G$150 million investment into youth development over the next four years.

The investment targets the establishment of national leagues for the Under-13, Under-15, and Under-17 age categories, aiming to close critical gaps in the nation’s football development pathway.

The Congress, held in Georgetown, ratified the GFF Strategic Plan 2025–2028, titled “The Final Third,” which focuses heavily on professionalisation, governance, and aligning the local game with international standards.

One of the most significant decisions approved by delegates was the radical restructuring of the domestic calendar.

To synchronise with FIFA match windows and global transfer periods, the GFF Elite League will shift its season to run from August to April, beginning with the 2026–2027 season.

This move is designed to enhance player availability for the senior national team and improve the professional viability of local clubs.

The Federation also confirmed the introduction of two new knockout competitions to ensure year-round activity:

• Elite League Cup: Scheduled for February–March 2026
• Federation Cup: Scheduled for April–May 2026
• Senior Men’s Regional Member Association leagues will also adopt the September to April schedule, while the Women’s Division One League is set to run from September to December.

Significant progress was also reported on infrastructure development, crucial for supporting the GFF’s long-term ambitions: Blue Water Shipping Stadium: FIFA has approved the final design for the proposed national stadium at D’Urban Park.

National Training Centre (NTC): Ongoing upgrades at the Providence facility include a newly outfitted gym and modern dormitory facilities.

Finally, the Congress adopted a new Match Integrity Policy. This formalisation of ethical standards includes procedures for education, reporting, investigations, and whistleblower protection, aiming to safeguard the game from match manipulation and corruption.

The decisions made at the 2025 Congress are expected to usher in a new era of structural stability and competitive growth for football in Guyana. (Modified GFF release)