Pakistan re-opens revamped Gaddafi Stadium ahead of Champions Trophy 2025
Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar, and Aima Baig set to electrify Lahore at opening ceremony tonight
LAHORE: Cricket fans in Pakistan are set for an electrifying evening as the newly revamped Gaddafi Stadium officially reopens today, ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.
The grand event will be marked by a dazzling opening ceremony, featuring performances by music icons Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar, and Aima Baig.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will grace the event, alongside top officials from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), government dignitaries, and cricketing legends.
The public can attend the festivities free of charge from 5:30PM onwards, ensuring an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Lahore.
Gaddafi Stadium reborn
Under the leadership of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the Gaddafi Stadium has undergone a remarkable transformation in just 117 days, setting a new benchmark for rapid infrastructure development. The venue now boasts state-of-the-art LED floodlights, two massive score screens, and newly imported seating across all enclosures.
The stadium upgrades also include world-class hospitality boxes, modern dressing rooms, and improved player facilities. Enhanced security measures and upgraded fan zones ensure a seamless experience for spectators attending both the tri-nation series (Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand) and the Champions Trophy 2025.
Naqvi personally oversaw the renovation efforts, making regular visits to ensure quality control. "This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams," he said. "I especially commend the workers, engineers, and all stakeholders for turning this dream into reality."
Champions Trophy 2025 returns
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to commence on 19 February, marking the return of the prestigious tournament after an eight-year gap. This will be the first ICC event hosted by Pakistan in nearly three decades, with matches taking place across Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
While Pakistan was initially set to host all games, India opted out of travelling due to security concerns. As a result, the tournament will follow a hybrid model, with India’s matches to be held in Dubai.
The competition will feature the top eight ODI teams, including defending champions Pakistan, who last lifted the trophy in 2017 with a historic victory over India at The Oval in London. Australia and India remain the most successful teams in the tournament's history, each having won the title twice.
Champions Trophy tickets
To enhance security and streamline access, the PCB and ICC have announced that only physical tickets will be valid for matches in Pakistan. Ticket collection begins today at 4:00PM at designated TCS Express Centres in 13 cities, including Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad.
In a thrilling addition to the tournament's excitement, ICC has teased its official Champions Trophy 2025 anthem, featuring Pakistani superstar Atif Aslam. The full song will be unveiled later today, promising to set the perfect tone for the highly anticipated tournament.
With the stage set and preparations complete, Pakistan is ready to welcome the world of cricket to an unforgettable Champions Trophy 2025.