FIFA and Saudi Fund for Development Pledge Up to $1 Billion for Global Football Infrastructure
Strategic memorandum with Saudi Arabia offers concessional loans to developing nations for stadium and sports-venue upgrades
The global governing body of football has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Fund for Development to offer up to US$1 billion in concessional financing to FIFA member associations for stadium construction and rehabilitation, particularly in developing countries.
The agreement, announced on 24 November 2025, seeks to provide discounted loans accompanied by technical assistance to help nations design and build modern multi-sport venues capable of staging international competitions.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that many associations “need additional support for the infrastructure necessary to host competitions.” He described the collaboration as a “crucial step” in enabling football to become truly global.
The Saudi Fund for Development emphasised that sport infrastructure aligns with its mission to generate jobs, promote health, boost tourism and strengthen communities.
The deal comes against the backdrop of Saudi Arabia’s deepening engagement with football: the Kingdom is scheduled to host the men’s World Cup in 2034 and its state-owned oil company, Aramco, has become a major global partner of FIFA.
Analysts suggest that the financing programme could significantly enhance sporting capacity in lower-income countries, while also further integrating Saudi Arabia into the governance and business of global sport.
Implementation will depend on project applications, approval processes and loan disbursements.
The first tranches of support are expected within the next 12 to 18 months, with priority given to associations in Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Observers note the move may serve as a blueprint for infrastructure-based sport partnerships, combining public-sector funds with global sport governance and development objectives.
The agreement, announced on 24 November 2025, seeks to provide discounted loans accompanied by technical assistance to help nations design and build modern multi-sport venues capable of staging international competitions.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that many associations “need additional support for the infrastructure necessary to host competitions.” He described the collaboration as a “crucial step” in enabling football to become truly global.
The Saudi Fund for Development emphasised that sport infrastructure aligns with its mission to generate jobs, promote health, boost tourism and strengthen communities.
The deal comes against the backdrop of Saudi Arabia’s deepening engagement with football: the Kingdom is scheduled to host the men’s World Cup in 2034 and its state-owned oil company, Aramco, has become a major global partner of FIFA.
Analysts suggest that the financing programme could significantly enhance sporting capacity in lower-income countries, while also further integrating Saudi Arabia into the governance and business of global sport.
Implementation will depend on project applications, approval processes and loan disbursements.
The first tranches of support are expected within the next 12 to 18 months, with priority given to associations in Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Observers note the move may serve as a blueprint for infrastructure-based sport partnerships, combining public-sector funds with global sport governance and development objectives.
