Premier League football will return to the Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG) for the upcoming September-to-December season after Cabinet approved a new pilot arrangement designed to accommodate both football and cricket at the historic venue.
The announcement was made by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant during Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, following discussions between government officials and representatives of the country’s football and cricket associations.
Merchant said Cabinet agreed that football and cricket can successfully coexist at the ARG provided there is proper scheduling, maintenance and facility management.
“Cabinet agreed that Premier League football will return to the Antigua Recreation Ground for the upcoming September to December season on a new operational framework,” Merchant said.
The decision marks a significant development for local football, which has long sought a return to the capital city’s premier sporting venue. The ARG has traditionally been regarded as one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most recognizable sports facilities and has hosted numerous football and cricket matches over the years.
Merchant said the arrangement will be implemented on a trial basis to determine its effectiveness and suitability for long-term use. He noted that previous operational arrangements for football at the venue would not continue under the new framework.
Cabinet also received recommendations for the establishment of a dedicated management structure for the ARG to oversee scheduling, maintenance and operational planning. According to Merchant, officials viewed the proposal as an important step toward maximizing the use of the facility while maintaining high standards for both sports.
The discussions were led by Sports Minister Dwayne George and included officials from the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association and representatives of the cricket community.
Merchant said Cabinet believes the venue can continue to serve as a premier football facility while maintaining its role as a host for regional and international cricket.
The move comes as football officials pursue plans to strengthen domestic competitions, improve infrastructure and increase opportunities for youth participation across Antigua and Barbuda.
For clubs and supporters, the decision signals the return of top-tier domestic football to a venue many consider the traditional home of major sporting events in the country.