FIFA is planning a record $6.35 billion football development fund for the 2027–2030 period, with each national association potentially receiving $25 million as world football’s governing body looks to reinvest the commercial success of the 2026 World Cup.
According to a document reviewed by The Associated Press on Tuesday, October 14, FIFA intends to significantly increase financial support for its 211 member associations, giving national federations a major boost in funding for football development.
The proposed package represents a substantial increase from the original plan, under which each association was expected to receive $10 million over the four-year period.
FIFA said in the document that it would use the financial success of the latest World Cup “to enhance investment in football development across 211 FIFA member associations, confederations and other stakeholders.”
The proposal includes more than $3.5 billion drawn from FIFA’s financial reserves, with the organisation citing the “unprecedented commercial” success of the expanded 48-team World Cup as the foundation for the increased investment.
If approved, the funding could provide national associations with additional resources to improve football infrastructure, strengthen grassroots programmes and expand opportunities for young players and women across different regions.
FIFA also plans to distribute $99 million to each of the six continental confederations as part of the proposed financial package.
The governing body said the plan would represent more than double the level of planned distribution funding for the 2027–2030 cycle, with particular emphasis on developing women’s and youth football.
“If accepted, the proposal will more than double the level of planned distribution funding for the 2027-2030 period, with a specific focus on investment and development of women’s and youth football,” FIFA said.
However, the financial plan is not yet final. FIFA’s council is expected to conclude the process in December 2026, subject to final approval at the 77th FIFA Congress in March 2027.
The proposal arrives amid growing political tension within world football, with European football leaders reportedly seeking a candidate capable of challenging FIFA president Gianni Infantino in next year’s presidential election.
Infantino, who assumed office in 2016, is seeking re-election in 2027. His leadership has faced criticism over several decisions, including a controversial private investment plan linked to the World Cup that was abandoned days after being announced in July.
The development funding announcement also comes a day after reports emerged that Infantino had received previously undisclosed compensation from the business entity responsible for the 2026 World Cup. The reports have raised questions about potential compliance with FIFA statutes.
The proposed $6.35 billion package could become a significant part of FIFA’s legacy from the 2026 tournament, particularly for national associations that rely heavily on international funding to support their football programmes.
For smaller federations, the proposed increase from $10 million to $25 million could provide greater financial flexibility to invest in coaching, youth development, women’s competitions and facilities.
Nevertheless, the package must pass FIFA’s approval process before the increased allocations can be confirmed. Until then, the proposed figures remain part of FIFA’s planned distribution strategy rather than guaranteed payments.
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