FIFA and the Saudi Fund for Development have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide up to USD 1 billion in concessional loans to support the construction and rehabilitation of FIFA-certified stadiums and sports infrastructure in developing countries.
Zurich | By Sayer Zaland
The agreement aims to help developing nations strengthen their sports ecosystems as part of broader national development strategies. Under the MoU, the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) will allocate up to USD 1 billion in low-interest financing to assist FIFA Member Associations and their governments in building or upgrading multi-sport venues and essential surrounding infrastructure.
Officials said the initiative is designed to promote long-term social and economic progress by supporting youth empowerment, community engagement and job creation through sport. Independent studies estimate that the global sports economy accounts for nearly 2 percent of the world’s GDP, highlighting its growing role in employment, tourism, and local development.
“Sustainable sports infrastructure is central to unlocking the full potential of young people and communities,” said Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of SFD. “Through concessional financing, we are helping countries build the facilities they need to empower future generations.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the partnership addresses the infrastructure gap facing many football associations worldwide. “Many FIFA Member Associations require additional support to build facilities that meet international standards,” he said. “This agreement ensures up to USD 1 billion will be available to finance FIFA-certified stadium projects and help make football truly global.”
The initiative is expected to serve as seed financing to attract additional development institutions, private-sector partners, and regional organizations. FIFA and SFD will work with national governments to identify priority projects and ensure that new facilities contribute to economic resilience, community development, and increased participation in sport.
The Saudi Fund for Development has financed more than 800 development projects worth over USD 22 billion across 100 countries. The partnership with FIFA aligns with global efforts to expand access to quality sports facilities, reduce disparities between nations, and strengthen the role of sport in national development agendas.