The government of Burkina Faso has initiated a massive project to transform the Centre omnisports d’entraînement des Étalons (COMET) in Ouagadougou. On September 22, 2026, Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo laid the foundation stone for the 15-month project, which will see an investment of 25.211 billion FCFA. The complex, spanning over eight hectares in Ouaga 2000, will significantly upgrade the country's sports infrastructure.
The new complex will feature extensive facilities, including accommodations for national teams, training installations, and medical services. The project comprises two five-story buildings, offering 57 double suites for the national A team and 300 rooms for other selections. A two-level building will be dedicated to medical care, while separate facilities will cater to physical preparation, dining, and collective activities.
The project also includes various sports infrastructure, such as a VAR room, football fields with natural and synthetic grass, and tennis courts. The complex will have a full-size Olympic swimming pool and other smaller pools for athlete recovery. These upgrades aim to create a comprehensive sports hub, allowing for enhanced preparation and performance of Burkinabè athletes.
Prime Minister Ouédraogo emphasized the importance of adhering to deadlines and technical requirements. The government expects the project to be completed within 15 months, after which it will serve as a central hub for national teams. The upgraded facilities will enable better organization and support for various sports disciplines.
The COMET was initially established in 1998 during the African Cup of Nations, which Burkina Faso hosted from February 7-28. The national team, known as the Étalons, achieved their best finish at that time, reaching the semi-finals and ultimately finishing fourth. Since then, the COMET has been used for preparing Burkinabè national teams.
The sports complex project aligns with the government's vision to improve sports infrastructure and support national teams. By consolidating accommodations, training, physical preparation, and medical services under one facility, the government aims to enhance the overall performance of Burkinabè athletes. The project is expected to have a lasting impact on the country's sports landscape.
The project's success will depend on the collaboration of various stakeholders, including construction companies and sports authorities. With a focus on timely completion and technical excellence, the government is optimistic about the potential of the new sports complex to elevate Burkinabè sports.
Key points
- The project involves an investment of 25.211 billion FCFA and is expected to be completed within 15 months.
- The complex will feature over 350 rooms and suites for national teams, as well as extensive sports infrastructure.
- The upgraded facilities will enable better organization and support for various sports disciplines, enhancing the overall performance of Burkinabè athletes.
