Opposition Leader and Shadow Sports Minister Ben Smith has renewed pressure on the Government over the state of the National Sports Centre, using a recent opinion column to question whether the facility is receiving the investment promised in official policy.

Smith noted that the Government’s own National Sports Policy identifies the Devonshire complex as central to the island’s sporting development and its capacity to host and compete in international events. He said answers to Parliamentary Questions he recently tabled have raised further concerns about the condition and funding of the venue, which serves as the home of Bermuda’s national stadium, aquatics facilities and numerous local sporting organisations.

The National Sports Centre has long been regarded as the hub of Bermudian athletics, hosting everything from CARIFTA track events and international football fixtures to school sports days and community swimming programmes. Sporting bodies have previously voiced concerns about ageing infrastructure at the site, arguing that sustained capital investment is needed to keep the island competitive regionally.

Smith’s intervention adds to an ongoing political debate over how Bermuda prioritises spending on sport, youth development and recreation. The Government has maintained that it remains committed to supporting sport on the island, pointing to funding outlined in its policy framework. The Opposition is expected to continue pursuing the matter in the House of Assembly, with further questions anticipated when Parliament resumes.