Tamil Nadu Approves Rs 261 Crore Global Sports City in Semmancheri to Boost Chennai’s International Sporting Profile

Tamil Nadu has taken a significant step toward strengthening its sporting infrastructure with the approval of Rs 261 crore for the establishment of a Global Sports City in Semmancheri. Envisioned as a state-of-the-art multi-sport destination, the project aims to position Chennai as a preferred venue for major international sporting events. The formal approval was issued through a government order by the Youth Welfare and Sports Department on October 27, marking a major milestone in the state’s long-term sports development strategy.

Spread across 42.2 acres, the Global Sports City will feature a wide range of international-standard facilities. At the heart of the project is a FIFA-compliant football turf designed to attract high-profile national and global tournaments. In addition, the complex will house dedicated zones for shooting, archery, skating and various indoor and outdoor sports, offering athletes advanced training and competition environments.

A key highlight of the project is the inclusion of a specially designed lake to support water sports while also serving as a rainwater harvesting and conservation system. This integrated approach aligns with Tamil Nadu’s broader sustainability and climate-conscious infrastructure plans.

For the 2025–26 financial year, the government has allocated Rs 30 crore to initiate the development, while the remaining Rs 231 crore will be released in the following year. Officials noted that the project is expected to not only elevate Chennai’s sporting identity but also generate new economic activity, enhance tourism and provide a professional platform for emerging athletes from across India.

The proposal received a positive techno-economic feasibility assessment conducted by Knight Frank and Collage Design, reinforcing confidence in its long-term viability and impact. According to government representatives, the Global Sports City is poised to become a landmark in Tamil Nadu’s commitment to nurturing a culture of sports excellence.

Once completed, the Semmancheri facility will stand as a modern hub capable of hosting world-class tournaments, training camps and international sporting collaborations, significantly boosting Chennai’s global sporting footprint.