INFANTINO OPENS BVI FOOTBALL HUB: 'Next Messi could be born here'

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has suggested the British Virgin Islands may one day produce footballers of global stature, speaking at the opening of an upgraded Football Association Technical Centre at Greenland, East End on September 26.

Addressing officials and football figures at the ceremony, Infantino said the facility will enable young players to pursue excellence in the sport. "The next Messi or the next Ronaldo or the next Maradona or the next Pele may well be born here," he told the gathering.

Beyond elite talent, Infantino highlighted football's broader value: the sport can develop character and create "better citizens" by instilling discipline, resilience and teaching players to handle setbacks.

The centre, funded through FIFA Forward, features a new artificial pitch alongside upgrades to drainage systems, changing rooms, washrooms and security fencing. It will support national teams, domestic leagues, clubs, schools and youth initiatives.

BVI Football Association President Avanell "Clarkie" Morton and his colleagues received praise from Infantino for channelling FIFA resources into local development. Deputy Governor David Archer Jr. and government ministers were among those present.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, attending from London where he was engaged in constitutional talks, said the improvements will enable the BVI to stage more international matches and bolster youth programming.

The visit was part of Infantino's broader Caribbean engagement, taking in Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, and St Kitts and Nevis. Infantino has announced his candidacy for re-election as FIFA president in March 2027.