BDFA 1st Division opening matches were postponed on Sunday due to the inundated pitch at the Marion Jones Sports Complex. Photo credit: Ian Gaynair
By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The BDFA 2025–2026 First Division Closing Championship was unable to kick off as planned on Sunday after a sudden early‑morning downpour left the Marion Jones Sports Complex field unplayable, forcing the postponement of the highly anticipated triple‑header.
The postponement came as a surprise to many, especially since Belize City had experienced several dry days leading up to Sunday. But shortly after 8:00 am, a heavy burst of rain soaked the facility, quickly softening the pitch and making it unsafe for competitive play. BDFA officials inspected the field and determined that the surface could not host the day’s matches.
The opening‑day schedule that was postponed included:
- 1:00 pm – Kelly Street Bombers vs 13 Miles Elite
- 3:00 pm – CRFC vs Ladyville Wolves
- 5:00 pm – Tut Bay FC vs Lake I FC
The triple‑header was meant to launch the BDFA’s Closing Championship. Fans had been expecting a full afternoon of football at the Marion Jones Sports Complex.
BDFA 1st Division opening matches were postponed on Sunday due to the inundated pitch at the Marion Jones Sports Complex. Photo credit: Ian Gaynair
Public frustration grows over field conditions
While rain‑related postponements are not uncommon, Sunday’s cancellation reignited long‑standing concerns about the condition of the Marion Jones facility—concerns that many athletes say have gone unaddressed for years.
Semi‑pro footballer and BDFA Executive Member Ian Gaynair publicly voiced his frustration shortly after the postponement, posting a message that quickly gained traction and widespread support from players, coaches, and fans across the football community.
“Greetings everyone,
First, I want to make it clear that I am not attacking or disrespecting anyone in authority.
However, how much longer do we, the people of the city, have to wait for just ONE stadium to be properly fixed so we can play football?
Almost every week, games are postponed because of 20 minutes of rain. This same field is where our U15, U17, U20, high school, Inter-Office, 1st Division, and Semi-Pro teams are expected to play only when it is dry
We are simply asking for help.
The kids want to play football.
Please hear us.”
His post resonated widely, with many commenters agreeing that the Marion Jones Sports Complex—Belize City’s primary football venue—should not be rendered unplayable by a brief shower. Several supporters noted that the issue affects not only senior competitions but also youth development, school tournaments, and community leagues.
BDFA expected to announce new date
The BDFA has not yet announced the rescheduled date for the postponed matches but is expected to do so once field conditions improve and scheduling adjustments are finalized.
For now, the conversation sparked by Sunday’s rainout continues to grow, with many calling for long‑term solutions to ensure that Belize City’s athletes—especially its youth—have a reliable, weather‑resilient place to play.
The post BDFA First Division Opening Triple‑Header postponed after sudden downpour; Marion Jones conditions draw public criticism appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
BDFA 1st Division opening matches were postponed on Sunday due to the inundated pitch at the Marion Jones Sports Complex. Photo credit: Ian Gaynair By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The BDFA 2025–2026 First Division Closing Championship was unable to kick off as planned on Sunday after a sudden early‑morning downpour left the Marion Jones Sports Complex
The post BDFA First Division Opening Triple‑Header postponed after sudden downpour; Marion Jones conditions draw public criticism appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
