Canary Islands Boost Local Sports with Major Funding and Facility Upgrades

In a significant move to strengthen sports at the grassroots level, the municipalities of San Miguel de Abona and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria have announced major financial aid and infrastructure improvements to boost local clubs and facilities in the Canary Islands.

The San Miguel de Abona City Council has allocated over €309,000 in direct economic aid to local sports clubs and entities. Aimed at promoting grassroots sports and supporting local athletes, the funding will cover expenses such as federation fees, championship participation, and acquisition of sports equipment. Additionally, supported clubs will benefit from free access to municipal sports facilities. Mayor Arturo González emphasized the City Council's strong commitment to sports as a vehicle for social cohesion and health promotion, stating, “We do not want any club in San Miguel de Abona to be left behind due to lack of resources.” Sports Councilor Julián Jesús Martín described the aid as a "key reinforcement for the sports growth of the municipality," highlighting its role in both sustaining traditional clubs and fostering new sports disciplines (ID: 85734).

Meanwhile, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the Municipal Institute for the Promotion of Physical Activity and Sport (IMD) invested €42,798.93 to modernize the Nicolás Sánchez football field in the El Lasso neighborhood. Renovations include a newly installed durable metal cover to protect spectators from sun and rain, and approximately 300 refurbished seats sourced from the Insular Sports Center, enhancing fan comfort during training and match days. City Councilor for Sports Carla Campoamor remarked that these upgrades demonstrate the city’s dedication to modernizing sports spaces to meet community and club needs. The project also incorporated recycling of materials from previous structures, a feature praised by Island Councilor Aridany Romero for its environmental and emotional significance, noting that the repurposed seats have witnessed significant local sporting moments. The improvements come ahead of a crucial Copa del Rey match, highlighting the ongoing investment in fostering high-level football in the region (ID: 85743).

These complementary initiatives illustrate a concerted effort across municipalities in the Canary Islands to support sports development both through financial backing and improved infrastructure. By providing vital resources and enhancing facilities, local governments are promoting physical activity, social unity, and sporting excellence within their communities.