FIFA and Board of Peace Sign Major Deal to Rebuild Gaza Through Football

FIFA has signed a landmark partnership agreement with the Board of Peace (BoP) to support recovery and long-term development in Gaza, Palestine, through football.

The agreement was signed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Gaza Executive Board of Peace member Yakir Gabay, High Representative for Gaza Nickolay Mladenov, and Chief Commissioner of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza Dr Ali Shaath. The ceremony took place at the United States Institute of Peace headquarters in Washington.

The Board of Peace was introduced by US President Donald Trump at the World Economic Forum in January 2026. The initiative brings together international leaders and institutions to support reconstruction and stability in conflict-affected regions, starting with Gaza.

Under this partnership, FIFA and the BoP will build a complete football ecosystem in Gaza. The plan combines sports development with job creation, youth engagement and economic support.

Four-Phase Implementation Plan

The project will be carried out in four phases:

Phase I – Community Activation (3–6 months):

Installation of 50 FIFA Arena mini-pitches near schools and residential areas to give children and young people safe spaces to play.

Phase II – Professional Infrastructure (12 months):

Construction of five full-size football pitches across different districts.

Phase III – FIFA Academy (18–36 months):

Development of a modern FIFA Academy to train young talents and provide structured football education.

Phase IV – National Stadium (18–36 months):

Construction of a new 20,000-seat national stadium to host major matches and events.

The programme will also focus on creating jobs, training local workers, organising leagues for girls and boys, and encouraging community participation. The aim is to boost social unity and support economic recovery through sports.

Implementation will move forward based on safety and security conditions in Gaza. Once the situation allows, Phase I will begin with proper monitoring and regular progress reports.

A key part of the project is the FIFA Arena initiative, which is part of FIFA’s global plan to build at least 1,000 mini-pitches worldwide by 2030. As of November 2025, 59 FIFA Member Associations have joined the programme.

Speaking after the signing, Infantino said the partnership will help attract investment into football to support recovery in post-conflict areas. He added that football brings people together and can contribute to a more peaceful and equal world.

This agreement marks a major step in using football as a tool for rebuilding Gaza and creating long-term opportunities for its people.