FIFA, Saudi Join Forces To Provide Support For Sports Infrastructure In Developing Nations

The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and FIFA have joined forces in a significant new partnership, pledging up to USD 1 billion (approximately £800 million) in concessional loans to bolster sports infrastructure in developing nations worldwide. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed, aiming to support FIFA Member Associations (MAs) in countries with clear strategies to leverage sport for national development.

This ambitious initiative will primarily focus on financing the construction or enhancement of FIFA-certified stadiums and crucial surrounding infrastructure. Both organisations underscore a shared commitment to strengthening sports ecosystems as a driver for broader social and economic advancement. The programme will prioritise nations that can demonstrate how investment in facilities will foster growth, create opportunities, and inspire participation across all levels of sport.

Independent reports highlight the substantial economic impact of sport, contributing nearly 2% to global gross domestic product. This partnership seeks to address the significant disparity in world-class facilities between nations, with 211 MAs globally. The new venues are expected to create jobs, stimulate local businesses, and enhance social cohesion by providing modern and safe spaces for young people to convene, train, and compete.

Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the SFD, commented: “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.”

Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, added: “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. This agreement is a crucial step in ensuring our FIFA Member Associations have the facilities to make football truly global.”

The SFD, with over five decades of development impact across 100 countries, views this partnership as elevating sport infrastructure as a core component of its development agenda, recognising its unique ability to generate employment, boost tourism, promote health, and strengthen community ties.
This initiative will also act as seed financing to attract other development institutions and private-sector partners, creating a scalable model for sustainable sports development across emerging economies.