FIFA proposes $6.35bn football development fund for 2027-2030

FIFA has proposed a substantial increase in global football development funding to $6.35 billion for the period of 2027-2030. This proposal, presented during a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich, Switzerland, is contingent upon an anticipated financial surplus from the 2026 World Cup. The new initiative, called the FIFA Surplus Solidarity Programme, would more than double FIFA's planned investment for the upcoming four-year cycle.

If approved, the funding could provide up to $25 million to each of FIFA's 211 member associations. The proposed financial boost would also extend to continental confederations, regional and zonal associations, and other football stakeholders, with resources allocated towards women's and youth football, long-term development programs, and infrastructure.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting football development and access globally, stating that the proposal aims to reinforce this commitment thanks to the strong financial outcome of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The proposal, however, is still under review by FIFA committees and the Council before it can be included in the organization's 2026 Annual Report and presented for approval at the 77th FIFA Congress in March 2027.

The Council meeting also addressed concerns regarding the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), an initiative that had faced criticism from stakeholders and has been permanently withdrawn. Additionally, FIFA's Football Social Responsibility Committee was tasked with evaluating the FIFA Peace Prize, and the organization agreed to review its disciplinary procedures following the decision to suspend a one-match ban imposed on United States forward Folarin Balogun.