The Montego Bay Sports Complex, a key venue for Jamaica Premier League matches, has suffered extensive damage due to Hurricane Melissa, leaving officials scrambling to address the aftermath. Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) President Michael Ricketts expressed deep concern after inspecting the facility alongside FIFA representative Malaika Church. The playing surface was submerged under inches of mud following days of torrential rainfall, rendering it unusable for the foreseeable future. Ricketts remarked, ‘I never thought it was that bad,’ highlighting the severity of the situation. The Category 5 hurricane caused the Barnett and Pye rivers to overflow, flooding the complex and leaving water marks up to five feet high in some areas. Montego Bay United (MBU) Chairman Yoni Epstein estimated repair costs at approximately $300 million and stated that the team would be unable to host home games at the venue for several months. MBU has temporarily relocated its local players to Kingston, where they played a 2-2 draw against Portmore United in a friendly match. However, Epstein emphasized that the club remains committed to playing in Montego Bay, with plans to finalize alternative arrangements soon. Initial cleanup efforts have focused on removing thick clay soil from the running track, but restoring the pitch will require delicate handling to avoid damaging the turf and underground sprinkler system. The electrical system, including floodlights, has also been compromised, with some bulbs blown out of alignment. Ricketts noted that FIFA has recommended seeking a memorandum of understanding with the St James Municipal Council to expedite repairs, as neither JFF nor MBU owns the facility. A detailed inspection revealed structural damage, further complicating restoration efforts. The JFF is now working to fast-track repairs to ensure the venue can host matches as soon as possible.
