In a move that could reshape the sporting landscape across emerging economies, the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and FIFA have struck a landmark agreement to channel up to USD 1 billion in concessional loans towards the construction and upgrade of modern sports venues around the world.
The partnership, formalised through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, places sport at the heart of national development strategies, targeting countries that have identified infrastructure as a gateway to economic opportunity, social progress and youth empowerment.
A development model built around sport
Under the scheme, developing nations and their FIFA Member Associations (MAs) will be able to access financing to build or rehabilitate FIFA-certified stadiums along with the critical infrastructure that surrounds them. The ambition is not merely to raise sporting standards, but to craft multi-purpose hubs that strengthen communities, stimulate local business and provide safe spaces for young people to gather, train and compete.
Independent reports estimate that sport accounts for nearly 2% of global GDP, highlighting its growing influence in employment, tourism and urban development. Yet among FIFA’s 211 Member Associations, the disparities in access to world-class facilities remain vast.
This initiative aims to narrow that gap.
Catalysing investment and capacity-building
Both organisations emphasise that the concessional loans are intended to act as a catalyst for wider investment. The programme expects to draw in additional international development institutions, private-sector partners and regional organisations, creating a scalable model for long-term sports development.
Projects funded under the partnership will be designed in collaboration with national authorities, ensuring that each facility supports broader economic resilience and helps cultivate local expertise.
Leadership voices: sport as an engine of progress
Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the SFD, said the agreement reflects a belief in sport’s transformative potential.
“Sport is more than competition—it’s 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 framed the initiative as central to the governing body's mission.
“FIFA's role is to develop football worldwide, and many of our 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 to finance FIFA-certified stadiums. This is a crucial step in making football truly global.”
A broader shift in Saudi development strategy
For the SFD, the agreement marks a significant elevation of sport within its development portfolio. The Fund—now in its fifth decade—has already supported more than 800 projects worth over USD 22 billion across 100 countries, traditionally focusing on transport, energy, water and social infrastructure.
By placing sport alongside these priorities, Saudi Arabia appears intent on positioning athletic infrastructure as a versatile tool for growth: one that can drive tourism, improve public health, strengthen civic identity and create new avenues of economic participation.
Towards a more level global playing field
While the MoU does not yet identify specific countries or project timelines, both organisations argue that the framework will help developing nations close the gap with wealthier footballing regions. If successful, the initiative could signal a shift in how major international institutions view sport—not as a cosmetic luxury, but as a core building block of national development.