Algiers clubs seek alternatives as main stadiums close for maintenance

Algeria’s two main stadiums will be closed to undergo major refurbishment work. The Stade du 5 Juillet and Nelson Mandela Stadium will be undergoing maintenance as Algiers-based Ligue 1 clubs seek alternative grounds to host their games.

According to La Gazette du Fennec, the stadium maintenance work could last several months.

MC Alger, USM Alger, CR Belouizdad, Paradou AC, and ES Ben Aknoun now need to find other stadiums to host their league matches.

The first few weeks of the 2025/26 Algerian Ligue 1 season will not be played in the two major stadiums. This new development has forced the league management, the LFP, to convene an urgent meeting regarding alternative stadiums.

Algerian champions MC Alger are expected to move their games to the Douera Stadium.

The other clubs need to consult with the LFP in proposing suitable stadiums. Algiers-based clubs will also compete in CAF club competitions, so they need to secure stadiums that are approved by CAF.