The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and FIFA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide up to USD 1 billion in concessional loans for the construction and rehabilitation of sports stadiums and essential surrounding infrastructure in developing countries.
This partnership aims to harness the potential of sports to drive economic growth, social inclusion, and youth empowerment.
The agreement prioritizes developing nations and their respective FIFA Member Associations, particularly countries with clear strategies to leverage sport for national development.
By supporting the creation of FIFA-certified stadiums and modern multi-sport venues, the initiative will enhance local sports ecosystems and provide communities with safe, modern spaces for training, competition, and social engagement.
Sport has a proven economic and social impact, contributing nearly 2 percent of the global GDP and driving employment, tourism, and community development.
Yet, the gap between countries with world-class sports facilities and those without remains significant. This partnership seeks to narrow that gap by supporting governments in designing, financing, and building infrastructure that meets international standards while serving as hubs for education, inclusion, and community life.
Through the concessional loans, SFD and FIFA will work closely with national authorities to implement projects that strengthen local capacity, create jobs, stimulate local businesses, and enhance social cohesion.
The funding will also attract additional investment from development institutions, private-sector partners, and regional organizations, establishing a scalable model for sustainable sports development across emerging economies.
Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the SFD, said, “Sport is more than competition, it is a catalyst for development and inclusion. 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.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino added, “FIFA’s role is to develop football worldwide, and many of our FIFA Member Associations need support to develop 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 to finance the construction and enhancement of FIFA-certified stadiums. This agreement is a crucial step in ensuring all our Member Associations have the facilities to make football truly global.”
For the SFD, this partnership elevates sports infrastructure as a key component of its development agenda.
Building on more than five decades of impact, supporting over 800 development projects worth more than USD 22 billion in over 100 countries, the fund continues to promote sustainable growth, generate employment, and improve lives through strategic development financing.
