
Tags: National Stadium Revelopment, Ryder Architecture, CAA Icon, Johnathan Seebacher
The iconic National Stadium in Kingston is poised for a dramatic transformation, with construction on a new world-class facility expected to begin in 2026 and full completion targeted for 2029. During a press conference at the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport on Wednesday afternoon, Johnathan Seebacher of UK-based Ryder Architecture unveiled the vision behind the ambitious project, describing it as a redevelopment designed to reflect both “place and people.”
Ryder Architecture, the lead design firm, is working in partnership with CAA ICON—a global consultancy firm specializing in sports and entertainment venues. Together, the two entities are delivering the comprehensive redevelopment of the National Stadium, part of a broader effort to upgrade the entire Independence Park complex, including the resurfacing of the running track and enhancements to surrounding facilities.
“We first commenced this piece of work in February,” said Seebacher. “It’s a real privilege to be working on such a culturally iconic building. From day one, we’ve been welcomed warmly by all our Jamaican partners. It’s a tremendous honour to work on a project of this magnitude.”
Johnathan Seebacher
The feasibility phase, which concludes in August, includes financial and tourism impact assessments conducted by CAA ICON, drawing from local, regional, and global benchmarks. Once completed, the project will move into detailed design in September, with physical works expected to begin next year.
The current stadium, encompassing approximately 65,000 square metres, will be reimagined as a fully compliant, world-class venue capable of hosting international athletics and football events, as well as major concerts.
“What we are working toward is a truly international venue—fully compliant with FIFA and World Athletics regulations, and in line with the Green Guide for safety, security, and visitor experience,” Seebacher explained.
Among the new stadium’s standout features:
A fully seated 37,500 capacity for sporting events, with accommodation for up to 50,000 for concerts.
A 90 per cent roof coverage to provide much-needed shade and shelter, boosting year-round attendance.
30 state-of-the-art VIP boxes, two VIP lounges, and upgraded corporate hospitality spaces.
A dedicated football zone in the West Stand and athletics zone in the East Stand, complete with modern gyms, warm-up areas, and anti-doping facilities.
Importantly, the existing West Stand—a culturally and architecturally significant feature of the current stadium—will be preserved and fully modernised. The rest of the stadium will wrap around this stand, integrating contemporary design with historical preservation.
“This is not a cookie-cut stadium,” Seebacher noted. “This is a stadium designed around its place, its heritage, and its people. The architecture takes inspiration from the original structure and even echoes the form of the Blue Mountains in its iconic new roofline.”
Outside the stadium, the public realm is also set for a major upgrade. A new Fan Boulevard will provide a pedestrian-friendly spine lined with bars, pop-up shops, live entertainment spaces, and event-day activities designed to engage fans from the moment they arrive.
“This is about creating an experience—not just for 90 minutes on the pitch or track—but from the minute you step into Independence Park,” he said. “And it’s only the beginning.”
Indeed, Seebacher revealed that Phase One of the stadium redevelopment could catalyse a larger master-plan for Independence Park, which could include:
A world-class sporting museum celebrating Jamaica’s athletic heritage.
Upgraded Stadium East and throws areas for track and field.
Expanded parking and transportation access, ensuring safer, more efficient movement of crowds.
Architectural renderings showed a sleek, modern facility wrapping around the refurbished West Stand, with modern concession areas, accessible restrooms, and open fan plazas—all designed to meet the highest global standards.
“We’re aiming for something that Jamaica can be proud of, but that can also host the world,” Seebacher said in closing. “Thank you for allowing us to be a part of this journey.”
Minister Olivia Grange, clearly moved by the presentation, turned to attendees and asked: “Do we like what we see?”
The response was immediate and emphatic: “Oh yes!”
With a projected completion date in 2029, the redevelopment of the National Stadium is more than just bricks and steel—it is the blueprint for Jamaica’s sporting and entertainment future.