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 allow football and cricket to coexist at the historic venue.
According to Antigua News Room, 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 both sports can successfully share 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, having hosted numerous football and cricket matches over the years.
Merchant noted the arrangement will be implemented on a trial basis to assess its effectiveness and suitability for long-term use. He confirmed 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. Officials viewed the proposal as an important step toward maximizing 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 as well as representatives of the cricket community.
Merchant said Cabinet believes the venue can continue to serve as a premier football facility while retaining its role as a host for regional and international cricket.
The move comes as football officials pursue broader plans to strengthen domestic competitions, improve infrastructure and expand 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 widely regarded as the traditional home of major sporting events in the country.
