FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced the global football body’s full support for rebuilding Gaza’s football infrastructure as part of broader reconstruction efforts in the war-torn region.
Speaking after a high-level peace summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, attended by over 20 world leaders, Infantino said FIFA would work closely with the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) to restore sporting life in Gaza and across Palestinian territories.
“It’s something very important for FIFA to be here — to help, to support, to make sure this peace process leads to real hope,” Infantino said.
The FIFA chief confirmed plans to rebuild football facilities destroyed during Israel’s genocide, which reportedly left over 67,000 people dead. A special fund will also be launched to support youth football programs and create new playing spaces, including “mini-pitches” and “FIFA Arenas.”
“Football’s role is to unite and to give hope. Through this game, we can bring children back to play, to dream again,” Infantino added.
FIFA’s efforts come as the Palestinian Football Association continues to urge the governing body to suspend Israel, citing violations of sporting and humanitarian principles, particularly regarding clubs based in occupied territories.
The matter remains under review by FIFA’s legal department, with Vice President Victor Montagliani confirming that no decision has yet been made.
Although FIFA’s response has been criticized for lacking urgency in holding Israel accountable on footballing grounds, its recent commitment represents more than sport, it offers a symbol of resilience, hope, and a possible return to normalcy through football.