FIFA has announced plans to propose an additional $3.4 billion — roughly £2.6 billion — in funding for football development across its member associations.
The increase, which FIFA will put forward for approval within its governance structures, would be directed at supporting projects and programmes that aim to grow the game at all levels. Officials say the move would substantially enlarge the pool of resources available to national associations and regional bodies.
Historically, FIFA has channelled development money into a range of activities including infrastructure, coaching and training, youth competitions, refereeing and governance support. While the organisation has not yet published a detailed breakdown of how the extra funds would be allocated, the additional resources are expected to flow through its existing development mechanisms.
The proposal will need to be endorsed by FIFA’s decision-making bodies before the funds can be disbursed. If approved, the gesture is likely to draw attention from national associations that have been pressing for greater investment to raise standards and widen participation in under-resourced areas.
FIFA’s move comes as global football continues to expand commercially and competitively, with member federations increasingly seeking support to build facilities, develop talent pathways and strengthen administrative capacity. Observers say the scale of the proposed increase underscores the governing body’s prioritisation of long-term development across different regions of the world.