in Vilnius district The first private indoor football stadium, RATO Football Arena, is officially opened, with over 4 million euros invested in it. These investments include the acquisition of the land, infrastructure works, the installation of the football field and the construction of a pressurized dome.
RATO football arena is the first covered stadium in the Vilnius district that meets the “FIFA Quality Pro” standards, with a field measuring 115 mx 79 m and licensed to host I League matches. This stadium already attracts many football enthusiasts and is well-regarded among football professionals due to its high-quality artificial surface with shock-absorbing underlay. Over 500 young football players train here per day. In addition, the stadium cooperates with football clubs and sports organizations, including A League teams.
Football stadium and more
The RATO football arena is not limited to football. The first phase of the project is fully completed, and the multifunctional complex being developed during the second phase will offer various sports and wellness activities. It is planned to open indoor and sand arenas here by September 2026. In addition, there will be spaces for CrossFit training, a gym, yoga and pilates classes, athletics and martial arts halls, a cafe, and a multifunctional physiotherapy center.
Why did RATO Credit Union decide to become a partner in this project?
RATO Credit Union strives to be close to the community and create long-term value. This football arena is not only an investment in a sports facility, it is also a contribution to a healthier and more active society. Seeing how hundreds of children will train here every day and how professional competitions will be held, we will feel that we have meaningfully contributed to this project, which will serve more than one generation. We believe that sports develop responsibility, teamwork, and trust - the same values that guide RATO Credit Union. We are proud to see how this facility becomes a center of attraction for athletes, families, and all active leisure enthusiasts,” says Vytenis Mažiulis, Chairman of the Board of RATO Credit Union.
The private sector contributes to improving sports infrastructure
The President of the Lithuanian Football Federation, Edgaras Stankevičius, is pleased with this project and notes that it is a clear example of how private business can contribute to improving sports infrastructure in Lithuania. “Such projects and private business investments provide a mutual benefit – for football, the opportunity to cultivate a new generation of talents and popularize this sport, while business sees a return on investment,” says Edgaras Stankevičius.
Multifunctional sports center for the community
The project is being developed by UAB “Vilniaus amažnoji akademija”, whose shareholders are Rišard Radzevič and Voitech Aškelovič. The developers emphasize that the opening of the RATO football arena is an excellent first step, showing that the project really has potential. The goal is to create a sports center that meets the expectations of both professional and amateur athletes. We want each of our clients to have the opportunity to improve their health, try various activities and find a suitable leisure activity for themselves.
Investments in sports are investments in the future
The Speaker of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, Saulius Skvernelis, also emphasizes that the private sector has an important role in creating sports infrastructure in the country. "Investments in sports are investments in public health and the future of youth. Such projects show that more and more attention is being paid to quality sports spaces in Lithuania," the Speaker of the Seimas said.
A modern and functional sports center for residents of Vilnius district
Vilnius district Mayor Robert Duchnevič is pleased that residents will now have access to modern sports infrastructure that meets international standards. “The indoor stadium, where it will be possible to train all year round, will be complemented by various sports and wellness activities that will be available to both professionals and amateurs,” said the mayor. He also added that the municipality supports and will contribute to the employment of this multifunctional center.
RATO football arena is not only a new sports facility, but also an important step towards the development of sports infrastructure in Lithuania. It is a place where sport, wellness and community come together, and where there is an opportunity to cultivate a new generation of talents and promote an active lifestyle.
