Tirana, October 16 – The international competition for revitalizing the “Asllan Rusi” Sports Palace began today in Tirana. Six finalist teams are now presenting their architectural designs before an international jury.

Prime Minister Edi Rama joined the opening ceremony together with Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja. Local and international representatives, architects, urban planners, entrepreneurs, and sports professionals also took part.

Elira Kokona, Director of the Albanian Investment Corporation (AIC), said the project opens a new chapter for “Asllan Rusi.” She explained that it will transform the historic building into a modern, multifunctional arena that meets international standards.

The new complex expands the structure from 5,000 to 13,500 square meters above ground. It offers 6,000 seats, 2,500 square meters of outdoor sports areas, and 12,500 square meters of public parking.

Kokona emphasized that sport now drives urban, economic, and social development. She pointed out that investing in sports infrastructure means strengthening the civic energy of new generations. The arena, she added, will host basketball, volleyball, handball, gymnastics, boxing, taekwondo, weightlifting, and wrestling.

She noted that the competition follows a transparent and inclusive process. The Municipality of Tirana supported the initiative, while a professional jury of international experts will assess the six finalist projects.

Kokona stressed that AIC’s mission focuses on turning state assets into engines of multidimensional growth. She credited Prime Minister Rama’s vision for building a European Albania where sport, culture, and infrastructure move national development forward.

“In the past decade, this vision has revived cities across the country,” Kokona said. “The winning project will unite heritage and modernity, giving ‘Asllan Rusi’ new life as a regional landmark”.

/a.p./