On Monday (11/24), FIFA officially announced a partnership with the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) to finance the construction and modernization of stadiums in developing countries. The agreement provides for a line of credit of up to US$1 billion (R$5.4 billion), targeting member federations interested in expanding their sports infrastructure.
The MoU stipulates that resources will be released under conditions deemed favorable, with a focus on building arenas, training centers and complementary structures needed to advance football in emerging regions.
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Gianni Infantino became FIFA president in 2016, following Blatter’s resignation.
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Gianni Infantino said Brazilian football is performing well in the Club World Cup
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FIFA President Gianni Infantino
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The Social Fund for Development states that the initiative aims to use sport as a tool for social transformation. Executive Director Sultan bin Abdul Rahman Al Murshid stressed in a statement that investments of this type can “expand opportunities for young people and strengthen communities” by offering affordable credit terms.
The initial proposal for the partnership gives priority to confederations of emerging nations – including the Brazilian Confederation. FIFA estimates that some member associations still do not have the minimum structure necessary to host international events or develop grassroots projects in a competitive manner.
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The federation also sees the agreement as a strategic step to reduce historical inequality between countries with modern stadiums and those without adequate facilities.
Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, described cooperation as a pillar of football’s global expansion. “Many federations still need support to build appropriate facilities. This partnership directly contributes to making sport truly global,” he said.