Another international competition is taking place in Tirana, this time for the revival of the “Asllan Rusi” Sports Palace. Today, six finalist teams presented their architectural project proposals. The competition, which aims to modernize and further develop this important venue, has attracted the participation of renowned architects and studios from across the globe.

The projects will be evaluated by an international jury composed of distinguished experts in the field, who will assess the creativity, functionality, and sustainability of the ideas—seeking not only to give the Sports Palace a modern look, but also to transform it into a landmark for European sporting events.

***

Prime Minister Edi Rama’s Speech: Good afternoon, everyone!
Once again, within a very short time, we find ourselves in another international competition for another longstanding idea and highly ambitious project—the revival of the Asllan Rusi Sports Palace, which has long been a reference point in the history of sporting challenges and achievements, and which today, in this new era, deserves a new form, a new strength, and renewed attention.

I believe the final teams in this competition will once again put us in a difficult position when it comes to choosing the best project, because they are all teams of extraordinary talent, with proven capacities in many other countries. Some of these teams are already working in Albania, and we are very proud of that. But I am confident that, with the international jury we have brought together this time as well, we will succeed in reaching a fair and proper judgment.

I don’t want to take more time away from the competition. At the same time, I want to express my pleasure in seeing in this hall some of the great protagonists of the era when the Sports Palace was overflowing with competition, with the spirit of the game, with passionate fans. I am very confident that through this project we will bring them back—not only the people, but also that irreplaceable spirit and energy of the Asllan Rusi arena. I am hopeful that the new wave of sports we have fostered in schools across the country, now involving more than 12,000 children—girls and boys—under the care of the Albanian Olympic Committee, will feed this Sports Palace with new talents and future stars.

At the same time, Albania today is aiming very high when it comes to participation in international competitions. Hosting the Conference League final in football was the culmination of a wide array of international events organized in Albania. Our ambition to host in Albania the finals of the Champions League or the European Super Cup—and likewise, in basketball or volleyball—is not unrealistic. We have already been in contact with international federations, and they have shown interest in our facilities. This project—this Sports Palace—that we hope to complete within a reasonable time, will give Albania a strong and credible candidacy to host such prestigious finals and matches at the highest European level.

Once again, thank you very much. Thanks to the finalists for their trust, their commitment, and the invaluable contribution they are making here in Tirana and Albania through their engagement. And thanks also to the friends and guests who are present today at this competition, which I am certain will be both captivating and inspiring. Thank you very much!