THE new stadium at FC Lausanne-Sport is taking shape. The Swiss club, which INEOS owns, hopes the Stade de la Tuilière will host its first game in June next year.
"It will be a magnificent stadium, especially for the players, the staff and the supporters," said Bob Ratcliffe, President and CEO.
The new training centre, which INEOS believes is essential for the club and its success, is also currently under construction.
INEOS bought the club, which then competed in Switzerland’s top football league, in November 2017.
It has since been relegated, but INEOS remains confident that the club can claw its way back to the top.
"We had hoped to do it in one year, but we didn’t quite achieve it," said Bob. "Like all fans, we were disappointed and frustrated, but opportunities exist and we will work on each of them."
He said INEOS wanted to develop the club. "We are going to try new things and we will do things differently," he said. "All may not be successful but we will try. Again and again."
GRASSROOTS LEVEL:
Young African footballers will soon have the chance to develop their skills at a world-class facility in their own country.
Two football academies will be built and operated.
David Thompson, CEO INEOS Trading & Shipping, said the deals between INEOS and the Tanzanian and Rwandan Football Associations, had been inspired by INEOS Chairman Jim Ratcliffe.
“Jim thought young people deserved to have such an opportunity,” he said.
Each academy will have at least three full-sized pitches, some five-a-side pitches, and a gym with medical facilities, classrooms, offices, a laundry, a kitchen, a dining room and accommodation for up to 96 students.
The training will be aimed at the U15s, U17s and U19s with extra camps laid on for younger players during the holidays.
David, who said negotiations were taking place with the Botswanan government for a possible third academy, said football would not be the only focus.
“The concept is very much one of a three-pillar structure,” he said. “All students will be expected to continue with full-time education, and we will be providing advice and education regarding social and welfare issues including the importance of diet.”