Football Federation Samoa officially opened their new $12 million Apia Park Football Complex on Monday. The project funded majorly by the football's world governing body FIFA started in 2021.

The Acting Minister of Sports and Recreation, Lautimuia Uelese Vaai said the day marked three years and nine months since the groundbreaking ceremony in 2021. 

"We are very proud to witness the successful completion of this enormous undertaking, in addition to the Tuanaimato Football Complex which consists of 20 acres of football facilities," he said. 

"This project at a cost of more than $10 million not including the government's contribution and duty free assistance, raises the total cost to around more than $12 million. It is the biggest sporting project undertaken by any sporting body in our country."

"I am very proud to announce that Samoa has I believe the biggest infrastructure project ever undertaken by a member association in Oceania. This consists of a full size indoor football arena or gymnasium which is fully convertible to host functions and meetings, and the capacity to host more than 2,000 people. 

"The office park, which will be made over here, plus a conference room, two shops, and four commercial spaces on the opposite side of me, and so forth."

There are two full size football fields and an additional three mini-football pitches at the Apia Park football Complex. 

Project Manager Asiata Van Wright said the challenges they faced were COVID-19 and labour shortages but they managed to complete the project with high standards and in compliance with regulations. 

Asiata commended the perseverance and teamwork that led to the project's success. 

"Efforts were crucial in ensuring the budget met the highest standards. Finer touches remain. I am pleased to confirm that when the building and the football fields were considered in construction they were in full compliance and are certified. Thank you for all your support, patience and faith throughout the journey. Let us celebrate."

President of F.F.S, Papalii Samuel Leslie Petaia acknowledged the previous government for their contributions over the years. The initial difficulties in securing land and approval. The project faced operational issues and scepticism. Despite setbacks, the project gained momentum with Government approvals in 2022 and 2023. 

"I would like to take this moment to acknowledge former Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi. I remember coming into your office and putting forward a proposal about whether it's something you'll be interested in, and you said I was the fourth sport that has come to the government. 

"Acknowleging the Government now, for their continuous support. We continue to bring good governance to what we do. We want to make the change so that our needs to all our Government, Government of New Zealand, Japan, Germany, you all play a part."