Region
A landmark project for football development
In 2024 FIFA commisioned Edel Grass to build two football pitches in Timor-Leste. This landmark sports facility marks an important step forward in the development of football within the region.
Located in Dili, the new National Football Center Campo Democracia was developed as part of a FIFA programme aimed at strengthening national football structures and providing young players with access to high-quality training facilities.
For the Football Federation of Timor-Leste (FFTL) and FIFA, the objective was clear: Create a modern, professional artificial turf football facility and pitches that meet FIFA Quality Pro standards and serve as a long-term foundation for national team development and youth training.
Two pitches, one performance standard
The heart of the technical centre contain two artificial turf football pitches, each designed for its specific role within the complex.
The main pitch features an Edel Diamondblade system, certified to FIFA Quality Pro, providing elite-level performance for national team matches and high-intensity training. Built on a stone base with a ProGame shock pad, the system incorporates a carefully engineered artificial turf construction. The performance layer is filled with sand and a recycled rubber infill granule. Combining high-performance playability with responsible material use, the result is the field offers excellent energy restitution, player comfort and consistent ball behaviour.
Alongside the main field, two mini pitches with a two-tone Edel XP turf system was installed to support youth development, grassroots training and technical sessions. Together, the surfaces form a versatile training environment capable of supporting players at every stage of development.
FIFA Quality Pro Field Certificate
FIFA Quality Pro Field CertificateA turnkey solution by Edel Grass
Edel Grass’ International Contracting dept. was appointed as contractor, responsible for the delivery of two artificial turf football pitches within a wider sports complex. Rather than a standalone pitch installation, the project required a coordinated approach to ensure both fields functioned seamlessly as part of an integrated football facility.
From the very start, Edel Grass worked closely with FIFA, FFTL and local partners to translate international standards into a solution that would perform reliably under local climatic conditions. The scope included not only the playing surfaces, but also floodlighting, spectator stands, irrigation systems, professional substitute benches, pitch branding and infill containment solutions.
Designed for performance in challenging conditions
Delivering a project of this scale in Timor-Leste came with significant logistic and environmental challenges. Materials such as silica sand were shipped from Europe, while construction took place during periods of heavy rainfall and seasonal flooding.
Strong project management and close communication between Edel Grass, local installer Hedge Construction and other stakeholders proved essential. Thanks to careful planning and on-site leadership, challenges were addressed effectively, keeping the project aligned with its technical and contractual objectives.
A foundation for the future of Timor football
The new National Football Center Campo Democracia is more than a sports facility. It is a strategic investment in the future of football in Timor-Leste.
“The project itself is a milestone for Timor-Leste football, having FIFA standards infrastructure
(pitches & floodlights), which will go a long way in terms of football development in Timor.”
Lavin Vignesh – FIFA regional officer
National teams now have access to a professional training environment, while young players benefit from consistent, high-quality pitches that support skill development and safe play. For the federation, the facility represents a major step toward sustainable football growth and international alignment.
Succesful hand-over
Completed in line with contractual expectations and certified to FIFA Quality Pro standards, the FTTL Technical Centre stands as a successful example of international collaboration and technical excellence.
With this build and hand-over, we provided Timor-Leste with a football facility that meets global standards. It offers a platform on wig the next generation of players can build their future.
Good luck O Sol Nascente!
Contact International contracting
Mark van Spriel
Head of International contracting International contracting