FIFA and the Board of Peace signed a partnership agreement on Thursday to attract investment through football from world leaders and sustainable development institutions in conflict-affected regions.
The Council of Peace, established under US President Donald Trump, held its first meeting focused on the Gaza Reconstruction Fund, aimed at rebuilding the territory once Hamas disarms.
The disarmament of Hamas militants and the associated withdrawal of Israeli forces, the size of the reconstruction fund and the flow of humanitarian aid to the war-torn population are expected to pose significant challenges to the effectiveness of governance in the coming months.
The FIFA cooperation plan includes the construction of 50 mini pitches near schools and residential areas in Gaza, five large pitches spread across several districts, a state-of-the-art FIFA academy and a new 20,000-seat national stadium, FIFA said.
Trump said FIFA will raise $75 million for soccer-related projects in Gaza.
“Today, FIFA and the Council of Peace signed a historic partnership agreement that will promote investments in football with the aim of helping the recovery process in post-conflict areas,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement.
“Together with the support of the Board of Peace, FIFA will drive this partnership, which is built to have an impact at every stage.”
The program will also emphasize job creation, youth participation, organized competitions for boys and girls, community involvement and encouraging local commercial activities, FIFA said.
Published on February 20, 2026
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