FIFA has announced a significant partnership with Saudi Arabia, pledging up to $1 billion to fund football infrastructure development across the globe. The initiative, formalized through a memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), will provide concessional loans to FIFA member associations, prioritizing developing nations, for the construction and rehabilitation of stadiums and other essential infrastructure.
Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, emphasized the importance of this agreement, stating that it is a crucial step in ensuring that FIFA Member Associations have the facilities needed to make football truly global. He also expressed his gratitude to the SFD for making the partnership possible. The initiative aims to support national governments in designing, financing, and building modern multi-sport venues that meet international standards.
The SFD's Chief Executive Officer, Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, highlighted the transformative power of sports, stating that the partnership combines SFD's development finance capabilities with FIFA's technical expertise to create lasting legacies. He noted that the investment in infrastructure will unlock human potential, generate jobs, empower young people, and strengthen communities for generations to come. The SFD has supported over 800 projects worth over $22 billion across 100 countries.
FIFA stated that the deal underscores a shared commitment to support developing nations in strengthening their sports ecosystems as part of broader efforts to advance social and economic development. The investment aligns with FIFA's objective to expand football's reach globally and reflects the growing role of sports as a driver of employment, tourism, and community development. Independent reports estimate that the global sports economy contributes nearly 2% of world gross domestic product.
This partnership is the latest development in the growing relationship between FIFA and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is set to host the men's World Cup in 2034. Moreover, Aramco, the Saudi state oil company, has become a major worldwide partner of FIFA and a sponsor for the 2026 World Cup. The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) was also an official partner at this year's Club World Cup.
Saudi Arabia's increased involvement in sports has drawn criticism, with some accusing the kingdom of "sportswashing" due to its human rights record. These critics suggest that the country is using sports investments to deflect attention from human rights concerns. However, Saudi Arabia has denied these accusations. Despite the controversy, the SFD's initiative aims to promote social inclusion, youth empowerment, and economic growth through investment in sports facilities.
