FIFA Unveils $6.3 Billion Development Fund With $25 Million for Every Member Association

FIFA is preparing the largest development funding package in its history. According to a document reviewed by The Associated Press on Tuesday, the world governing body will propose a $6.3 billion fund covering the 2027–2030 cycle, with every one of its 211 member associations set to receive $25 million — a dramatic increase from the original plan of $10 million per association over the four-year period.

The plan would draw more than $3.5 billion from FIFA's financial reserves, which have swelled on the back of what the governing body describes as the unprecedented commercial success of the expanded 48-team World Cup. The proposal, dated 14 October, places women's and youth football at the heart of the investment, with FIFA saying the package would "more than double the level of planned distribution funding" for the cycle. The six continental confederations would each receive $99 million.

The proposal lands amid visible tension between FIFA and European football leaders over the organization's finances and governance. European officials are reportedly seeking a candidate to challenge Gianni Infantino, who became president in 2016 and is preparing to stand for re-election next year, after his private-investment plan for the World Cup was scrapped within days of its unveiling in July.

The financial plan still needs to be finalized by the FIFA Council in December 2026 and approved at the 77th FIFA Congress in March 2027 before any money flows.