FKF Set to Benefit as FIFA and Saudi Fund for Development Pledge $1 Billion for Sports Infrastructure

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is set to benefit from a landmark partnership between FIFA and the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD).

Both organisations pledged up to USD 1 billion in concessional loans to support the construction and rehabilitation of sports stadiums and surrounding infrastructure in developing countries.

The initiative aims to strengthen national sports ecosystems while driving social and economic development. The agreement highlights a shared commitment to support FIFA Member Associations, including the Football Kenya Federation, in investing in world-class facilities that promote participation, create employment opportunities, and foster community growth.

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Developing nations like Kenya will be prioritised, with the programme designed to deliver facilities that meet international standards and serve as hubs for education, inclusion, and community engagement.

According to FIFA, independent studies estimate that the global sports economy contributes nearly 2% of world GDP, demonstrating its growing impact on employment, tourism, and community development.

Yet, the gap between countries with world-class facilities and those without remains wide, particularly in developing regions.

Through these concessional loans, SFD and FIFA will collaborate with national authorities to finance and build modern multi-sport venues that can attract additional development funding from private partners and regional organisations.

The programme aims to create scalable, sustainable models of sports development while stimulating local economies and building long-term resilience.

Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of SFD, said: “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.”

Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, added: “FIFA's role is to develop football worldwide, and many of our FIFA Member Associations, including FKF, 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 via concessional loans to finance the construction and enhancement of FIFA-certified stadiums.”

On his part, FKF president Hussein Mohammed expressed his excitement after FIFA secured what he described as a significant partnership, praising President Gianni Infantino for steering the initiative.

He noted his appreciation for the Saudi Fund for Development, saying the support would enable developing Member Associations such as the Football Kenya Federation to invest in modern, FIFA-certified infrastructure.

"I congratulate FIFA for securing this important partnership, and commend President Gianni Infantino for leading the process. I also appreciate the Saudi Fund for Development for stepping forward with support that will help developing Member Associations like Football Kenya Federation invest in modern, FIFA-certified infrastructure," he said in a post on his Facebook page.

"This is the kind of commitment that strengthens football ecosystems, creates opportunity for our youth, and lays the foundation for long-term growth."

The partnership underscores the potential of sports infrastructure to generate employment, boost tourism, promote health, and strengthen social cohesion, while supporting FKF and other associations in delivering facilities that meet both competitive and community needs.