The Paraguayan Football Association (APF) officially inaugurated a new high-performance hotel for the national football team, about a week before the start of the 2026 World Cup. The event also marked the unveiling of the country’s first-ever hybrid football pitch, a significant technological advancement for the nation’s sporting infrastructure. This dual inauguration represents a major step forward in modernising the resources available to Paraguay’s top athletes.
The ceremony took place at midday at the High-Performance Centre (CARDE) in Ypané. This facility serves as the primary training hub for the Paraguayan national teams, known affectionately as the Albirroja. The new additions are part of a broader strategy to enhance the country’s footballing capabilities and provide the national squad with world-class facilities.
A new era of preparation
The state-of-the-art hotel is specifically designed to provide the national squad with a dedicated and controlled environment for concentration, training, and recovery. Having such facilities located directly on-site at the CARDE allows the team to optimise its preparation for crucial international fixtures and major tournaments. Furthermore, this development is seen as an essential move to ensure Paraguayan football remains competitive on a demanding global stage.
During the ceremony, a symbolic presentation of magnetic keys was made to mark the official opening of the hotel. This gesture signified the formal handover of this new home to the players and staff of the national team. It is expected that the hotel will house the players during all future training camps and in the build-up to home matches.
Honouring a football legacy
In a tribute to a key figure in the nation’s football history, the new hotel has been named the “Escribano Óscar Harrison”. This name honours the former president of the Paraguayan Football Association, whose leadership was, acoording to officials, instrumental in the development of the sport within the country. Harrison’s tenure is remembered for significant progress and dedication to the game.
The decision also carries a personal significance for the current APF leadership, as Óscar Harrison is the father of the association’s current president, Robert Harrison. The naming serves to bridge the past and present of the organisation, acknowledging the foundational contributions that have paved the way for the continued growth of Paraguayan football infrastructure.
Hybrid pitch technology enters Paraguay
Alongside the hotel, the APF also inaugurated a landmark project for the country’s sporting facilities. A new football pitch featuring an advanced hybrid system was officially opened. This marks the first time such technology has been implemented in Paraguay, aligning the nation with the leading international standards currently seen in top football leagues and stadiums worldwide.
The hybrid system integrates natural grass with synthetic fibres. Consequently, this innovative combination significantly improves the durability and overall condition of the turf. It allows the pitch to withstand more intensive use throughout the year while maintaining a consistent, high-quality surface for both training sessions and competitive matches, which ultimately benefits player performance and reduces the risk of injury.
A gathering of esteemed guests
The significance of the inauguration was highlighted by the presence of numerous distinguished guests from the worlds of sport and politics. The President of the Republic, Santiago Peña, and the First Lady of the Nation, Leticia Ocampos, were in attendance, underscoring the national importance of the project.
The event also drew prominent figures from football administration. Alejandro Domínguez, the president of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), was present for the ceremony. He was joined by the honoree, former APF president Óscar Harrison, and his son, Robert Harrison, who continues the family’s legacy as the current head of the organisation.
Celebrating with football icons
To celebrate the occasion, a host of legendary Paraguayan footballers attended the ceremony, adding a sense of history and prestige to the event. In total, 26 players who have represented Paraguay at the FIFA World Cup were present. Their attendance provided a powerful link between the nation’s celebrated footballing past and its ambitious future.
Among the iconic former players were Roque Santa Cruz, Nelson Haedo Valdez, and Jonathan Santana. They were joined by other notable World Cup veterans, including Diego Barreto, Jorge Núñez, and Rogelio Delgado. The current head coach of the Albirroja, Gustavo Alfaro, also participated, representing the team that will directly benefit from these modern facilities.
Also read: 26 Names, One Nation: Paraguay’s 2026 World Cup Squad Revealed.
