The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and FIFA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to allocate up to $1 billion in concessional loans aimed at financing the construction and enhancement of FIFA-certified stadiums in developing countries.
The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and FIFA have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide up to $1 billion in concessional loans for global football development, according to a report from Goal.com.
The financial commitment is dedicated to supporting FIFA Member Associations (MAs) in developing nations by financing the construction or enhancement of FIFA-certified stadiums and essential surrounding infrastructure.
This move is the latest product in the growing FIFA-Saudi partnership, following Saudi Arabia being announced as host of the 2034 World Cup.
The initiative is specifically designed to help close facility gaps in emerging economies and aligns with a broader agenda to advance social and economic development.
The SFD and FIFA partnership will prioritize associations that outline clear strategies for utilizing sport within national development goals, with an emphasis on social inclusion, youth empowerment, and economic growth.
Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the SFD, underscored the ambitious scope of the agreement.
He stated: “We at SFD believe in the power of sports to change lives. We are combining our strengths — SFD’s development finance and FIFA’s technical experts — not only to build venues but also to create lasting legacies.
We are investing in the infrastructure that will unlock human potential, generate jobs, empower young people, and strengthen communities for generations to come.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the agreement, emphasizing its critical role in the governing body’s mission.
He commented: “This agreement is a crucial step in ensuring our FIFA Member Associations have the facilities to make football truly global.”
The SFD’s goal is to elevate sport infrastructure as a core component of its development agenda, recognizing its unique ability to strengthen community ties.