FIFA Launch New Partnership With Saudi Fund for Development Worth up to $1bn

The Memorandum of Understanding will see the money used for concessional loans for the construction and rehabilitation of sports stadiums and essential surrounding infrastructure in developing countries around the world.

FIFA say the move is “backed by compelling evidence of sport’s economic impact as independent reports estimate that the global sports economy contributes nearly two percent of world gross domestic product, underscoring its growing role as a driver of employment, tourism, and community development.”

FIFA Funding to Support National Governments

FIFA has 211 Member Associations, but the gap in infrastructure between them all is wide. The partnership therefore seeks to support national governments in designing, financing, and building modern multi-sport venues.

The initiative will also act as seed financing to attract other development institutions, private-sector partners and regional organisations, creating a scalable model for sustainable sports development across emerging economies.

“Sport is more than competition — it’s a catalyst for development and inclusion,” said Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the SFD. “Through concessional financing, we are helping countries build the infrastructure they need to unlock potential, empower young people, and strengthen communities for generations to come.”

“FIFA’s role is to develop football worldwide, and many of our FIFA Member Associations need additional support for the infrastructure necessary to host competitions,” added FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

“Through this memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Fund for Development, up to $1bn will be made available via concessional loans to finance the construction and enhancement of FIFA-certified stadiums. This agreement is a crucial step in ensuring our FIFA Member Associations have the facilities to make football truly global.”

(give me sport)