The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved the National Sports Stadium in Harare, Zimbabwe for international matches after extensive renovations and upgrades. This significant development, announced on August 21, 2026, marks the end of a five-year ban during which the stadium was deemed unfit for hosting international football.

The approval grants the stadium CAF Category 3 status, allowing it to host various international competitions, including CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup group-stage and quarter-final matches, as well as Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The last FIFA-sanctioned match held at the stadium took place on November 14, 2021, forcing national teams and local clubs to play their home matches abroad during the ban.

Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Lieutenant-General (Rtd) Anselem Sanyatwe, confirmed the approval following a recent technical inspection of the facility. He acknowledged the efforts made by the Government of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) in addressing concerns raised during previous inspections. "CAF has acknowledged the considerable efforts made by the Government of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Football Association in addressing the observations raised during the inspection," Sanyatwe stated.

The refurbishment program included the installation of bucket seats, upgrading the playing surface, and improvements to dressing rooms, toilets, water supply, and drainage systems. The government collaborated with technical experts and private-sector partners, notably Sakunda Holdings, which played a significant role in the stadium's modernization.

The approval is expected to revitalize Zimbabwean football, allowing the national team, known as the Warriors, to host their upcoming AFCON qualifiers at home. The Ministry of Sport has encouraged local supporters to return to the stadium to support their teams during international assignments.

As Zimbabwe prepares to host the Democratic Republic of Congo in a 2028 AFCON qualifier next month, the government has called on supporters, corporate entities, and sporting organizations to contribute to maintaining and improving the stadium. This approval not only signifies a return to international football for Zimbabwe but also aims to restore the National Sports Stadium's status as the country's premier football venue.