FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced an ambitious plan to construct a modern football stadium in war-torn Gaza, marking a significant step in the region’s reconstruction efforts. The project, estimated at $50 million, aims not only to provide world-class sporting infrastructure but also to foster hope, unity, and community resilience among Gaza’s residents.
The announcement was made during the inaugural meeting of the newly formed “Board of Peace” at the United States Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C. The board has been established to coordinate international assistance for Gaza’s reconstruction, ensuring that both humanitarian and infrastructural initiatives receive strategic support.
FIFA has confirmed that the new stadium will accommodate between 20,000 and 25,000 spectators. Alongside the main arena, the project includes the establishment of a FIFA Academy to nurture young talent, as well as the development of smaller football facilities across Gaza. According to the Associated Press, the plan will see the construction of 50 small football pitches and five full-sized fields, providing spaces for grassroots football development.
In his address, Infantino emphasised the broader social impact of the initiative:
“We must rebuild not only homes, schools, hospitals, and roads, but also people’s hope, passion, and confidence. Football has the power to do that.”
The project is also receiving strong international financial backing. During the same meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump pledged $10 billion towards Gaza’s reconstruction. Additionally, nine other nations have committed a combined $7 billion in aid. Five countries have expressed interest in sending troops as part of an international stability mission to ensure the safe and effective implementation of reconstruction projects.
Although Gaza does not have a separate national football team, FIFA has recognised a unified Palestinian team representing both Gaza and the West Bank since 1998. This long-standing recognition underscores FIFA’s commitment to football as a unifying force in the region.
Key Details of the FIFA Gaza Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $50 million |
| Stadium Capacity | 20,000–25,000 spectators |
| FIFA Academy | Yes |
| Additional Football Facilities | 50 small pitches, 5 full-sized pitches |
| Purpose | Reconstruction, youth development, social cohesion |
| International Funding | $17 billion pledged (U.S. $10B + 9 other countries $7B) |
| Stability Support | 5 countries expressed interest in contributing troops |
| FIFA Recognition | Unified Palestinian team representing Gaza & West Bank (since 1998) |
The Gaza stadium project is expected to become a beacon of hope, symbolising both the power of sport to unite communities and the potential of football to drive social reconstruction in conflict-affected regions.