Saudi fund and FIFA to invest $1bn in sports infrastructure for developing countries

FIFA and the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at closing the significant disparity in sporting infrastructure across the organization’s 211 Member Associations. The initiative will give priority to countries that have outlined clear national strategies using sport as a driver of social and economic progress.

Independent studies show that the sports industry contributes nearly 2% to global GDP. Building on this impact, the program seeks to deliver modern, multi-purpose facilities that meet international standards. These projects are expected to generate local jobs, stimulate business activity, and foster stronger community ties.

Highlighting the broader vision behind the memorandum of understanding (MoU), Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the SFD, said, “Sport is more than competition, it’s a catalyst for development and inclusion. 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 President Gianni Infantino underscored the importance of the agreement in strengthening the global football ecosystem. He explained that up to USD 1 billion will be made available through concessional loans to support the construction and upgrading of FIFA-certified stadiums. “This agreement is a crucial step in ensuring our Member Associations have the facilities to make football truly global,” Infantino said.

The concessional loans will serve as seed capital, implemented in collaboration with national authorities to ensure projects contribute to sustainable economic resilience and capacity building. Designed to be scalable, the model is expected to attract additional investment from other development institutions and private-sector partners.