A groundbreaking collaboration between FIFA and Saudi Arabia is set to redefine the future of world football. Over the last several years, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as one of the most influential investors in the global sports arena, using football as a key tool for economic diversification and international presence. Now, the kingdom has stepped into an even larger role through a historic partnership with FIFA.
Under the agreement, the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) will provide up to 1 billion US dollars—approximately £800 million—in low-interest loans aimed at improving football infrastructure across developing nations. This massive funding scheme has been described as one of the most significant financial commitments ever made to support global football development.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the initiative as a “monumental moment” for the sport.
“This partnership will give our member associations the facilities they need to help football grow internationally,” he said.
In its official statement, FIFA emphasised that the initiative would serve as a catalyst for broader socio-economic advancement:
“The agreement underscores a joint commitment to strengthen sporting infrastructure as part of a wider effort to promote sustainable development in emerging nations.”
During the announcement ceremony in Zurich, Infantino reiterated that infrastructure remains a severe bottleneck for many footballing nations:
“Building and expanding infrastructure is essential. I want to thank the Saudi Fund for Development and its leadership for making this partnership a reality.”
Saudi Arabia has rapidly become a central figure in global football politics. The kingdom is set to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034, while Saudi oil giant Aramco has been named a major sponsor of the 2026 World Cup.
SFD CEO Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad highlighted the transformative nature of the programme:
“We believe in the power of sport to change lives. Through a combination of SFD’s financial expertise and FIFA’s technical knowledge, we aim to create not only venues but lasting impact. These investments will unlock human potential, generate employment, empower youth, and strengthen communities for generations.”
According to the memorandum, SFD will offer loans at interest rates lower than current global market standards. Alongside this, FIFA will ensure that all projects meet international construction and sustainability guidelines.
This initiative goes far beyond football. It represents a strategic effort to reshape the social and economic trajectory of developing countries by giving young people access to opportunity, education, and community engagement through sport.
A billion-dollar investment may well be the beginning of a new era—one in which football becomes a catalyst for global development.