Sports Ministry issues clarification on provision of Sugathadasa Stadium for musical concert

Saturday, 3 January 2026 00:32 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Sports Ministry yesterday issued the following clarification over the situation that has arisen concerning the use of the Sugathadasa Stadium for a musical concert.

”The outdoor stadium was agreed to be provided for a musical concert scheduled to be held on 28 December. The current running track at the Sugathadasa Stadium is in a dilapidated condition, making it unsuitable for athletic competitions. Consequently, the process of calling for tenders to remove the existing track and reconstruct a new one has already commenced.

Due to the presence of potholes and significant wear, the track is currently not utilised for any sporting events. Since the stadium will remain inactive for sports during the upcoming reconstruction period, the management authority agreed to lease the premises for the concert subject to relevant charges.

The responsibility for the event lies with the organisers. Furthermore, the concert will not cause any additional significant damage to the track, as the current surface is already slated for complete removal.

We strongly condemn the distorted statements made by certain individuals and the unethical, false reporting by some media outlets that portray this event as a major blow to sports and the stadium infrastructure.”