Saudi Fund for Development and FIFA join forces to transform sports infrastructure in developing nations

In a landmark partnership, the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and FIFA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to allocate up to USD 1 billion in concessional loans for the construction and rehabilitation of sports stadiums and essential surrounding infrastructure in developing countries around the world.

This initiative underscores a shared commitment to support developing nations in strengthening their sports ecosystems as part of broader efforts to advance social and economic development.

The programme will prioritise developing nations and their respective FIFA Member Associations (MAs), helping them invest in facilities that drive growth, create opportunity, and inspire participation at every level.

“Sports is more than competition—it’s a catalyst for development and inclusion,” said Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the SFD.

“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.

Through this memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Fund for Development, up to USD 1 billion will be made available via concessional loans to finance the construction and enhancement of FIFA-certified stadiums.

This agreement is a crucial step in ensuring our FIFA Member Associations have the facilities to make football truly global.”

The partnership is expected to have a significant impact on the global sports economy, which contributes nearly 2 percent of world gross domestic product and is a growing driver of employment, tourism, and community development.

The initiative will create jobs, stimulate local businesses, and strengthen social cohesion by giving young people safe and modern spaces to convene, train, and compete.

The SFD and FIFA will actively collaborate with national authorities to deliver projects that contribute to long-term economic resilience and local capacity building.

The initiative will also act as seed financing to attract other development institutions, private-sector partners, and regional organisations, creating a scalable model for sustainable sports development across emerging economies.